Project Description
Through interactive workshops, panel discussions and creative projects, this international conference encouraged participants to contribute their own perspectives and jointly discover new modes of engagement and empowerment.
The conference focused on the Jewish history of Frankfurt am Main, a city that has been a significant centre of Jewish culture in Germany for centuries. It built on the history of the city as one of the key centres of the Jewish community in Europe and brought together Jewish student leaders, activists, and experts to delve into the history of the city and the struggles for recognition by Jews in Germany after 1945. Particular attention was given to the ‘Frankfurt Auschwitz Trials’ (1963-65) and the ‘Frankfurt Stage Occupation’ (1985), which are considered milestones in Jewish self-determination in Germany. This conference fostered an open and collaborative space for young Jewish leaders to shape the future of Jewish life and resistance in Europe.
Outputs
- A total of 100 participants attended the conference, coming from various countries such as the UK, Spain, Italy, Finland, France, Germany, and others.
- The conference reached international students, who comprised approximately 40% of attendees, young Jews aged 18–35, and German students with little to no prior interaction with JSUD.
- The participants produced and shared their insights live through Instagram stories, significantly expanding the audience. The Jüdische Allgemeine (a German-Jewish newspaper) published an article about the conference, and additional articles appeared in the JSUD magazine.
Findings
- The conference facilitated connections among Jewish students from different countries, highlighting the power of cross-cultural exchange and diverse backgrounds. This experience emphasised the importance of international solidarity among Jewish communities.
- Discussions about events like the Frankfurt Stage Occupation (1985) reinforced the importance of collective action in the face of historical trauma and the ongoing fight for recognition and justice.
- The conference addressed the current challenges in combating antisemitism in Europe. Examining how Jewish communities are confronting rising levels of antisemitism reinforced the need for ongoing engagement in building solidarity to combat hate and ensure a safer future for Jews.