2024-11-08 03:34:00
On Friday, the November pogroms against the Jewish community 86 years ago will be officially commemorated – in two separate events. The Israelite Community (IKG) commemorates the Shoah name wall in the morning together with representatives of the government and all parties except the FPÖ. Meanwhile, the liberal National Council President Walter Rosenkranz lays a wreath at the memorial for the Austrian Jewish victims of the Shoah at Judenplatz.
The reason for the parallel commemoration is that the IKG, citing numerous anti-Semitic incidents, does not want any contact with the FPÖ and thus also with the National Council President elected two weeks ago. IKG President Oskar Deutsch demands that Rosenkranz, who is a member of the German national fraternity Libertas, resign from the position of head of the National Fund for the Victims of National Socialism, which is associated with the office of National Council President.
This year, the commemorative events for the November pogroms are taking place one day before the actual anniversary because this time it falls on a Saturday and therefore on the Jewish day of rest, Shabbat. On the night of November 9th to 10th, 1938, synagogues throughout the “German Reich” were systematically set on fire, Jewish shops were looted and Jews were mistreated. In Austria alone, at least 30 Jews were killed, 7,800 were arrested and around 4,000 from Vienna were immediately deported to the Dachau concentration camp.
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**Interview with Oskar Deutsch, President of the Israelite Community (IKG)**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Mr. Deutsch. As we approach the 86th anniversary of the horrific November pogroms, can you explain the significance of holding separate commemorative events this year?
**Oskar Deutsch:** Thank you for having me. The decision to hold separate commemorative events reflects the deep concerns we have regarding the rising tide of anti-Semitism in our society. Our intent is to honor the memory of those who suffered and perished during those dark times, and we feel that engaging with parties that have a history of anti-Semitic rhetoric undermines this solemn occasion.
**Interviewer:** It’s clear there are strong feelings about this. National Council President Walter Rosenkranz has been invited to lay a wreath at the Judenplatz memorial. Given his affiliation with the liberal National fraternity Libertas, do you believe it is right to exclude him from the main ceremony?
**Oskar Deutsch:** Inclusion is a matter of trust and respect. Our community has faced numerous anti-Semitic incidents recently, and maintaining a distance from representatives of those who do not uphold our values is crucial for us. We believe it’s vital to create a safe environment for remembrance, which is why separate events are necessary this year.
**Interviewer:** This situation has the potential to stir public debate. How do you think the broader community should address differing views on commemorating such historical atrocities?
**Oskar Deutsch:** It is essential for communities to engage in open discussions about these events’ interpretations and the implications they hold today. I invite everyone to reflect on the history of anti-Semitism and the present climate. How we choose to remember the past can help shape our society’s future. I believe it’s crucial to confront uncomfortable truths and hold those in power accountable for their actions and rhetoric.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Mr. Deutsch. Given your perspective, how do you think the community will respond to these separate commemorations? Should members of the public take a stand on this issue?
**Oskar Deutsch:** Absolutely, I encourage public engagement. It’s a moment for all of us to consider what it means to stand against anti-Semitism and promote dialogue. I hope that members of the community will not only remember the past but also take meaningful actions to address the ongoing challenges we face today. It’s a collective responsibility to ensure that history does not repeat itself.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights. As we reflect on the significance of these events, it raises an important question for our readers: Do you believe that separating commemorations based on political affiliations is a necessary stance for communities, or does it risk deepening divisions? We encourage you to share your thoughts.