© MAKKABI Deutschland
Luis Engelhardt heads the project “Zusammen1 - Für das, was uns verbindet” [Together1 - For what unites us], which is sponsored by MAKKABI Deutschland and in cooperation with the Central Council of Jews in Germany. In this interview, he explains how antisemitism manifests itself on German sports fields and how spectators and clubs can support those affected locally.
Sport is the cultural phenomenon of our time. Its impact on society can be invaluable if fair play is embraced consistently and with a sense of respect. By the same token, antisemitism on German sports fields is an expression of a broader social problem that regularly emerges in sport – especially in soccer – in the form of discriminatory or violent incidents. Far too often, such incidents are not even recognized for what they are. A survey of all Makkabi members revealed that 68% of respondents from the Makkabi soccer sections had experienced an antisemitic incident themselves at least once – many of them on more than one occasion.
One of the most widespread manifestations in soccer is antisemitic othering, such as belittling the opposing team by referring to them simply as "Jews". But we’re also seeing powerful antisemitic conspiracy narratives, mostly with a reference to "money and power". The current focus is particularly on Israel-related antisemitism: this has increased massively since October 7, 2023, as recently articulated in fan choreographies and in public statements issued by professional footballers.
We’re very sad to see how football is used as a platform for antisemitic statements and behavior. This is why MAKKABI Germany launched its project "Zusammen1" in 2020 as a central point of contact for dealing with antisemitic incidents and for antisemitism-critical educational work through sport. We’re actively engaged in the areas of research, education and structural development.
With the aim of shedding light on this widespread but unseen issue and in order to improve professional follow-up, "Zusammen1 " introduced a reporting button for antisemitic incidents in sport a year ago in cooperation with the federal association RIAS. Incidents can be reported and documented anonymously on a low-threshold basis. We also offer personal contact, case support and (referral) advice. The "Zusammen1 "team contacts the people concerned to find out what support they need and simply to be available to help them. Thanks to our good network in organized sport – especially in soccer – we can take targeted action to ensure that the relevant institutions are swiftly involved. Cases are frequently referred to OFEK.
All too often, antisemitic statements and violence go unchallenged. Such situations can be particularly stressful for those concerned, even if they are not the ones who are actually being targeted personally. Since October 7, 2023, many people concerned have reported increasing social isolation and a frightening silence on the part of society at large in the face of antisemitic incidents.
This is why it is vital to sensitize people to how antisemitism is expressed and encourage them to take a clear stand – such as by speaking out or showing their support for those being targeted. Solidarity can counteract the sense of isolation felt by targeted individuals by signaling to them that they are not alone – for example by offering to talk, leaving the scene together, or making a public statement.
I recommend that sports clubs offer regular educational programs on the topics of antisemitism and Jewish life in Germany. "Zusammen1’"s offerings range from workshops and lectures to educational training sessions – combining conventional soccer training with methods of political education to facilitate individual engagement and the development of active strategies – on site, on the pitch.
![[Translate to Englisch:] Porträtfoto Luis Engelhardt](/assets/_processed_/6/f/csm_Portr%C3%A4tfoto_Luis_Engelhardt_c_MAKKABI_Deutschland_71bcf05672.png)