Exhibition of the Research and Information Center on Anti-Semitism in the Campus Center

Authentic anti-Semitic incidents form the basis for the exhibition "Yes, THAT is anti-Semitism!". Jewish experiences in Hesse by RIAS Hessen. The incidents were processed anonymously. But: they happened. They are incidents that happened to Jews. As the people affected, they experienced a wide variety of reactions from those around them: ignorance, laughter, appeasement, relativization - but also solidarity. After coming into contact with RIAS Hessen, many seek professional help, especially from OFEK Hessen e.V., the counseling center for people affected by anti-Semitism.

Berlin-based illustrators Sophia Hirsch and Büke Schwarz turned the incidents into pictures and illustrated stories. They often drew swear words and gestures as symbols and depicted reactions to the anti-Semitic incidents partly through the facial expressions and gestures of those affected or the people involved in the events.

The exhibition is a starting point for dealing with the perspective of those affected. It needs to be recognized that someone who experiences anti-Semitism does not have to explain it first, but is met with solidarity and empathy. Hence the title: "Yes, THIS is anti-Semitism!" The exhibition can be seen at the University of Kassel from January 14.

"The exhibition shows right-wing extremist antisemitism, Israel-related antisemitism, post-Shoah antisemitism and conspiracy ideology antisemitism. It was conceived before October 7, 2023, and we have supplemented it with incidents from the time after. For Jews, anti-Semitism means that spaces are narrowing and their sense of security is dwindling. Some hide their Jewish identity, while others develop a high level of resilience. The situation is fundamentally changing Jewish life and questions arise: where can solidarity and support be found, how can we empower ourselves, what options are there for action? We show the perspective of those affected. We want to encourage civil society to show more solidarity. And we are grateful that the University of Kassel is taking on this topic and opening up new spaces," says Dr. Susanne Urban, RIAS Hessen project manager.

The President of the University of Kassel, Prof. Dr. Ute Clement, is delighted that the touring exhibition can also be seen in Kassel and adds: "I see the terrible situation of many people in war zones. I am currently very concerned about how we can break away from stereotypical confrontations and contribute to greater understanding. This includes recognizing the reality of life for all people in Germany, listening to them and naming discrimination. One important task is to learn to listen without reflexively relativizing. This exhibition is about anti-Semitism and it is good that new formats provide new impetus for dealing with such a profound topic. I hope the exhibition attracts many visitors who engage with the experiences shown here in a respectful and empathetic way and contribute this to a social discourse. I would like to encourage all guests to do so."

The traveling exhibition can be seen from January 14 to February 24, 2025 in the Campus Center of the University of Kassel at the Holländischer Platz campus and is a cooperation between RIAS Hessen and the University of Kassel.

Opening hours Campus Center:

Mon. to Fri. 6:00 am to 10:00 pm
Sat. 7:00 am to 8:00 pm
Closed on Sun.

Opening on January 14, 2025, 6:00 pm
Campus Center
Campus Holländischer Platz, Kassel

Welcome
President Prof. Dr. Ute Clement (President of the University of Kassel)
Introduction
Dr. Susanne Urban (RIAS Hessen)
Personal reflection
N.N.

Press contact University of Kassel

Sebastian Mense
University of Kassel
Communication and Marketing
Phone: +49 561 804-1961
E-mail: presse[at]uni-kassel[dot]de
www.uni-kassel.de

Information and contact RIAS Hessen

Susanne Urban
E-mail: susanne.urban[at]rias-hessen[dot]de