Minister of Culture and Equality Lubna Jaffery held an appeal during the celebration of Crystal Night on Saturday.
It is 86 years since Kristallnacht, also called the November pogrom, when approximately 7,000 Jewish businesses and homes in Germany were destroyed. Officially, 91 people were killed, according to Store Norske Leksikon.
Kristallnacht was the prelude to the Nazis‘ systematic persecution of Jews, which only a few years later developed into the Holocaust, the genocide of six million Jewish children, women and men.
– It’s getting dark now, too
– It is a day to look back, in sorrow. And to look at our time – our Europe and the world. Even now it’s getting dark, Jaffery said in his appeal.
She recalled that Kristallnacht happened in peacetime. It was not war when synagogues burned, when Jewish shops and homes were razed and looted, when the first Jews were sent to concentration camps.
– We must never forget this: Kristallnacht did not come out of nowhere. Years of anti-Semitic propaganda and dehumanization of Jews lay behind them. Several were exempted: Roma, gypsies, queers, the disabled. Superhumans. Subhumans. Us. And them.
Reason to be vigilant
Jaffery stated that, unfortunately, anti-Semitism and racism have not subsided.
– On the contrary. Far right and anti-democratic movements are on the rise. We hear rhetoric that gives every reason to be wary, even in countries we think we are similar to. At the same time, we are in a difficult world situation. Climate change. War. The Middle East – Gaza – is on fire. It is terrible, so much inhuman suffering!
Hatred, vandalism and threats
– But acts of war in the Middle East in no way justify the fact that Jews here at home are now reporting increased hatred, vandalism, threats and fear.
Jaffery said that “Jew” is used as a slur.
– People here no longer dare to wish each other shabbat shalom in the street. This is unacceptable. Everyone should be safe and have their place in our society, Jaffery stated.
– This is the day when we stand together and say never again. Never again!
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**Interview with Lubna Jaffery, Minister of Culture and Equality**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us, Minister Jaffery, especially during such a poignant time as we commemorate the anniversary of Kristallnacht. Could you share what this event means to you personally and within the context of our society today?
**Lubna Jaffery**: Thank you for having me. Kristallnacht is a stark reminder of the depths of hatred and intolerance that can take root in society. Personally, it serves as a call to action for vigilance against discrimination in all its forms. We must remember the past to prevent such atrocities from happening again.
**Editor**: You held an appeal during the celebration of Crystal Night this past Saturday. What were the key messages you wanted to convey in your address?
**Lubna Jaffery**: My address focused on the themes of resilience, remembrance, and dialogue. We need to honor the memories of those who suffered by fostering a society built on equality and understanding. It’s vital to engage younger generations in these discussions, fostering an awareness of history so that we can build a better future together.
**Editor**: You mentioned the importance of engaging with younger generations. How do you believe educational initiatives can help in this regard?
**Lubna Jaffery**: Education is foundational in combating ignorance and fostering empathy. Incorporating lessons about the Holocaust, the impact of antisemitism, and other forms of discrimination in school curriculums can help instill values of respect and solidarity. We also need to support programs that encourage interfaith dialogue and cultural exchanges.
**Editor**: As we look back at the atrocities of Kristallnacht and the subsequent persecution of Jews, what steps can our government take to ensure that such a dark chapter in history is not repeated?
**Lubna Jaffery**: We need comprehensive policies that promote inclusivity and protect marginalized communities. This includes legislation against hate crimes, funding for community outreach programs, and partnerships with organizations dedicated to tolerance and human rights. It’s crucial for our society to stand united against hatred and discrimination.
**Editor**: Thank you, Minister Jaffery, for sharing your insights and commitment to fostering a more inclusive society. Your words today remind us of the importance of remembrance and action.
**Lubna Jaffery**: Thank you for shedding light on these issues. Together, we must strive to create a world where diversity is celebrated and everyone can live free from fear of persecution.
