Against anti-Semitism
Solidarity evening with Levit and the Toten Hosen
The publicist Michel Friedman and the Holocaust survivor Margot Friedländer on stage in Berlin. photo
© Hannes P. Albert/dpa
“There is no Christian, Muslim, or Jewish blood. There is only human blood.” Clear words from Margot Friedländer at the solidarity concert in Berlin.
Numerous celebrities such as Pianist have provided music, readings and speeches Igor Levit took a stand against anti-Semitism in Berlin. Holocaust survivor Margot Friedländer, the rock band Die Toten Hosen, publicist Michel Friedman, actress Katharina Thalbach and television chef Tim Mälzer, among others, appeared in the Berlin ensemble on Monday evening. A text by the French philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre and Carolin Emcke’s book “Against Hate” were read.
Friedländer wanted more humanity during a short appearance on stage. “I am horrified by what has now happened,” said the 102-year-old, who is an honorary citizen of the city of Berlin. “We are all human beings and come into this world in the same way. There is no Christian, Muslim or Jewish blood. There is only human blood.” She emphasized: “We can and must be careful, we have to be humane.”
Michel Friedman said everyone can do something about hate. “At the end of the day, as always in human history, it is the few (…) who want to destroy people with their hatred and poison. But they can only do it because the many do nothing.” That’s why it’s up to many people to do something.
According to the theater, the event initiated by Levit and Friedman entitled “Against Silence. Against Anti-Semitism” was sold out within a few minutes. Several politicians were also guests at the almost four-hour evening, including Minister of State for Culture Claudia Roth (Greens) and Green Party leader Omid Nouripour. The proceeds from the event will benefit a counseling center for anti-Semitic violence and an initiative against anti-Semitism.