Well, well, well! Pull up a chair, grab a drink, and brace yourselves for an evening where dialogue meets music and literature—all in a not-so-silent protest against something that shouldn’t even exist in the first place: anti-Semitism! Yes, you heard me right! This isn’t just an event; it’s a passionate stand, a theatrical showdown where culture and values are on the bill!
Now, let’s set the scene—a cozy evening at the Altes Rock Café on December 4th, hosted by the Artists Against Antisemitism and the Augsburg State Theater. Imagine the perfect mix of literary genius and musical prowess, all aimed at dismantling a societal ill that, quite frankly, should have been chucked out the window decades ago—much like my childhood ambitions of being a juggler!
You see, when we talk about the events of November 9, 1938, it’s easier to slip into nostalgia. But nostalgia doesn’t fight back; it doesn’t kick anti-Semitism to the curb! The Augsburg group is cutting through the mist of remembrance, saying, “Listen! We have to keep kicking this thing right where it hurts—and not just in memory, but in the here and now!”
To break it down a bit: too often we hear, “Oh, it was terrible back then!” (cue the awkward head nods). But our heroes at Artists Against Antisemitism are here to say, “Yes, it was terrible! And guess what? It’s still a problem today!” Picture it like a bad sitcom where the punchline is always the same and nobody is laughing. So, they’re bringing satire and art into the mix—because let’s be real, if you can’t laugh at your enemies, what hope do you have?
And what’s this fascinating anthology they’ve whipped up? Oh, just a little something called “Are there anti-Semites present?” I mean, if that doesn’t get you intrigued, I don’t know what will! With contributions from writers like Franz Dobler—a man who probably knows how to wield a pen like a sword—this collection tackles hatred with a smirk and a jibe. But don’t worry, it’s not all seriousness! After getting your brain working, you can shift gears and dance the night away as the marvelous Volka Glück serenades us! Who says you can’t engage in deep conversations about grave issues while getting your groove on?
And did I mention the entry is free? I mean, come on! It’s the best deal in town—better than a buy-one-get-one-free offer at a dodgy pub!
So, folks, if you’re in Augsburg on December 4th, put on your thinking caps, bring your dancing shoes, and prepare for an evening where silence doesn’t stand a chance. Whether you want to engage in dialogue, enjoy some spirited discussions, or simply soak in the intellectual ambiance over a pint, there’s something for everyone!
In the words of our Augsburg friends, “Never again is now!” So, let’s raise our glass—and maybe a cheeky eyebrow or two—to creative resistance and defiance against the normalization of hate! Cheers! 🍻
December 4th, 2024 – An Evening of Expression: Literature, Music, and Conversations Against Silence
The esteemed Augsburg collective Artists Against Antisemitism along with the Augsburg State Theater warmly invites the community to an evocative evening dedicated to literature, music, and profound discussions at the historic Altes Rock Café on the evening of December 4th.
On November 9th, 1938, Germany witnessed the horrors of the pogrom night, a catastrophic event that resulted in the irreversible destruction of Jewish shops, synagogues, and homes in Augsburg and beyond. This tragic turning point signaled the beginning of the systematic persecution of Jews during the National Socialist regime. Although this somber day is remembered, there is an urgent need to confront and challenge contemporary threats, such as the rising tide of anti-Semitism and the alarming normalization of hatred directed towards Israel, which collectively undermine the foundational values of freedom, human dignity, and justice enshrined in Germany’s Basic Law.
In response to these pressing societal issues, the Artists Against Antisemitism movement actively works to counteract the normalization of hatred. They stress the importance of carrying the lessons learned from historical memory into today’s context, asserting that immediate action against forgetting and trivializing history is “more crucial than ever.” Their mantra, “Never again is now!” serves as a rallying cry for vigilance and awareness.
Together with the Augsburg State Theater, the Artists Against Antisemitism initiative aims to send a robust message against the pervasive silence and growing acceptance of anti-Semitic ideologies. They emphasize the critical need for public dialogue and active engagement to combat these insidious attitudes.
Scheduled for December 4th, this enlightening event will feature a diverse program including literary readings, musical performances, and open discussions, creating an inclusive space for community members who wish to engage and reflect. Highlighted during the evening will be the newly released anthology “Are there Anti-Semites Present?” (Satyr Verlag, 384 pp.), a collection that uses satire to address both historical and contemporary forms of anti-Semitism, showcasing contributions from various artists including local writer Franz Dobler, who will be reading selected passages from his work. The evening will also feature music by DJ Volka Glück, providing a relaxed environment for attendees to converse informally following the readings.
With this event, the Artists Against Antisemitism not only seek to remember the past but emphasize that the fight against anti-Semitism is not just necessary but is overdue. They passionately call for proactive engagement in discussions to confront the escalating normalization of anti-Semitic sentiments and the culture of silence prevailing in society.
(Text: AAA/ DAZ)
Artists Against Antisemitism Featuring Franz Dobler and DJ Volka Glück
December 4, 2024, 8:00 p.m
Altes Rock CaféKriegshaberstraße 4, 86156 Augsburg
Entry is free.
## Interview: Artists Against Antisemitism
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today! We’re excited to discuss the upcoming event hosted by Artists Against Antisemitism at the Altes Rock Café. Can you tell us a bit about the inspiration behind this evening?
**Guest:** Absolutely! The event is rooted in a deep commitment to challenge anti-Semitism and to remind our community that the lessons of history must not only be remembered but actively addressed in our present. By combining literature, music, and dialogue, we hope to engage people in a meaningful way.
**Interviewer:** I love that approach! And you mentioned that this is not just a remembrance of the past but an active stance against current issues. Can you elaborate on that?
**Guest:** Certainly. November 9, 1938, represents a tragic moment in history, but what we’re facing today—growing anti-Semitism and the normalization of hatred against various communities—demands urgent attention. Our event aims to emphasize that while we remember our past, we must also take a strong stand against similar sentiments that exist today.
**Interviewer:** You’ve put together a noteworthy anthology titled “Are there anti-Semites present?” Can you share what readers can expect from this collection?
**Guest:** Yes! The anthology features contributions from various writers, including renowned author Franz Dobler. It tackles the theme of anti-Semitism with a blend of satire and critical reflection, attempting to convey that we can confront such serious issues with a touch of humor and wit. Ultimately, it stimulates conversation while delivering a powerful message.
**Interviewer:** That sounds intriguing! And music will also play a role in the evening, correct?
**Guest:** Absolutely! We’re thrilled that the marvelous Volka Glück will perform. Music has this unique ability to unite people. It’s a beautiful way to create joy and connection, even amidst serious discussions. We want attendees to engage intellectually, but also to let loose and enjoy some great tunes.
**Interviewer:** And to top it all off, the event is free for the community. What motivated you to make this an accessible gathering?
**Guest:** We believe that issues of hatred and discrimination should concern everyone, and we want as many people as possible to join in this conversation. By offering free entry, we remove barriers and hope to cultivate a diverse crowd that reflects our community’s richness.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, what is your hope for the takeaway from this event?
**Guest:** Our hope is for attendees to leave with a renewed sense of responsibility towards combating anti-Semitism and promoting inclusivity. We want people to remember that the fight against hatred isn’t just a historical issue; it’s a daily commitment. As we like to say, “Never again is now!” It’s a constant call to action.
**Interviewer:** Thank you so much for sharing these insights! We’re looking forward to the event on December 4th, and we encourage everyone to come ready for a night of thought-provoking dialogue and lively music.
**Guest:** Thank you! We can’t wait to see everyone there!