You now have to think a lot about how you can put an end to this hatred.
Innsbruck (OTS) – In view of the current warning signs, it is clear that we have to work against anti-Semitism and racism early enough. A lot was missed.
Since Hamas’ cruel terrorist attack on Israel, anti-Semitism has been increasing in Austria. That affects you. And at the same time it raises many questions. The current situation is alarming. There is little point in repressing unpleasant dynamics and messages. Because it shows that something is going wrong in our liberal democracies – something similar can be observed throughout Europe.
Yes, everyone is entitled to their own opinion. At the same time, we must not accept intolerant and authoritarian ideologies, but must discuss and criticize them again and again. We see this very clearly now. The question is, how to deal with this outside of criminal law? And where to start? – Educational researchers have been pointing out gaps when it comes to “Holocaust Education” for years. There is a lack of training and further education opportunities for teachers. Many young people have the feeling that the Holocaust happened forever ago and have no awareness of what anti-Semitism specifically means today. At the same time, a conference in Innsbruck in spring 2023 showed that elementary school students can already be given an age-appropriate understanding of anti-Semitism and racism.
The fact is that schools are a place where children and young people are socialized. A place where opinions and statements often collide unfiltered. A place where everyone meets: children of educated citizens and migrants. Much more space and support would be needed here, an early warning system for and against hate. This has been missed for years. If you just discuss whether it is left-wing, right-wing or Jew-hatred imported from Arab countries, you are making it too easy for yourself. It’s more complicated. You have to listen and educate. Mourning all dead victims and always opposing anti-Semitism. Political lip service on memorial days and after anti-Semitic incidents alone is not enough. What is missing is a show of solidarity from everyone. Against hate.
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