Star Pianist Igor Levit Hosts Antisemitism Awareness Event in Berlin

In the wake of escalating antisemitic incidents in Germany following a Hamas-initiated attack on Israel on October 7, star pianist Igor Levit organized a solidarity event to voice opposition to antisemitism and silence on the issue.

Levit expressed his deep disappointment with the German cultural sphere's muted response to the violence by Hamas, which resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 Israelis and the kidnapping of 240 civilians. Typically vocal about injustices, the cultural community's lack of public support in this instance drove Levit to use his platform to speak out.

Levit was appalled by the subsequent increase in antisemitic incidents in Germany, noting that a significant part of society failed to condemn these actions.

The 'Against silence. Against antisemitism.' event, hosted at the prestigious Berliner Ensemble theater, aimed to unite voices across Germany's cultural and political landscape in a stand against hate. The solidarity concert on Monday featured an array of influential figures who engaged in musical performances, speeches, and readings.

Commitment to Activism

During the event, writer Michel Friedman, a former president of the European Jewish Congress, emphasized the importance of taking a stand against antisemitism. He criticized the inaction of Germany's cultural community and highlighted the urgency of showing solidarity with victims of the Hamas attacks.

Recent rallies in Germany have shown support for both Israelis and Palestinians, the latter under the onslaught of Israel's military action, a direct response to Hamas' aggression. Hamas, an Islamist Palestinian group, is recognized as a terrorist organization by various countries, including the EU, US, and Germany.

Igor Levit was among the musicians, including the likes of Wolf Biermann, Die Toten Hosen, Sven Regener, Malakoff Kowalski, and Joana Mallwitz, who contributed to the event's musical lineup.

Distinguished attendees included Holocaust survivor Margot Friedländer, journalist Dunja Hayali, actress Katharina Thalbach, climate activist Luisa Neubauer, and director Maria Schrader, showcasing a breadth of support across disciplines.

The event's tickets sold out within minutes, indicating strong public interest in the cause. It spanned nearly four hours and included readings from philosophical and anti-hate literature.

Voices of Experience

Holocaust survivor Margot Friedländer, who once survived a concentration camp and had emigrated to the US, returned to Berlin in the hope of peace. During the event, she expressed her horror at the current rise in antisemitism, reminding the audience of the unified nature of humanity beyond religious labels.

The German organization RIAS e.V. reported a spike in antisemitic incidents following the October 7 attacks, including a firebombing at a synagogue in Berlin.

Creating Hope and Empowerment

The concert also aimed to support the Jewish community in Germany, many of whom feel isolated and consider leaving the country. Levit and co-organizer Friedman hoped to empower the community and reinforce the message that they are not forgotten.

Levit, who passionately defends human rights, views the event as not only consolation but also as a call to question whether Germany can still be a safe haven for those targeted by hate.

The pianist vows to continue advocating for minorities and plans to organize additional events to support the fight against antisemitic violence and discrimination, with proceeds aiding related initiatives.

Levit, Antisemitism, Concert