7 October 2023
Engaging in Dialogue
The 7th of October 2023 marked a historical rupture that also had a profound impact on the lives of Jews in Germany and both the institution and staff of the Jewish Museum Berlin (JMB). It is with sadness and horror that we have been following the news of violence in the Middle East since the massacre committed by Hamas. The suffering, uncertainty, and devastation continue to grow. Our thoughts are with Hamas’s hostages, their families, and all the people in the region who are suffering under the current situation through no fault of their own.
The JMB is a place where people with diverse positions and perspectives respectfully come together and engage in dialogue. We stand against all forms of hatred and enmity against any human group. We welcome all visitors to our exhibitions and events who come seeking dialogue and discussion.
Events in Remembrance of 7 October 2023
On the anniversary of the October 7 attack, the JMB is hosting two days of free events to create space for discussion and remembrance. On 9 October, we will present the KOLOT project, which documented a range of voices in the community, in the form of narrative video interviews.
On 7 October, the JMB will offer free guided tours through the core exhibition on the topic “Jews, Germany, and Israel.” The 90 minutes tour will be offered in three languages: 2 pm in English, 3 pm in German, 4 pm in Hebrew – no registration required. In addition, we will set up a book table in the Glass Courtyard of the Jewish Museum Berlin (JMB) with selected books relevant to the subject from our library at the W. Michael Blumenthal Academy.
Interior view of the Libeskind Building by Hélène Binet (b. 1959), Berlin; Jewish Museum Berlin, accession 2014/337/5, photo: Hélène Binet
Interior view of the Libeskind Building by Hélène Binet (b. 1959), Berlin; Jewish Museum Berlin, accession 2014/337/5, photo: Hélène Binet
Rehearsing the Spectacle of Spectres
After the attack, the JMB presented the video work Rehearsing the Spectacle of Spectres (2014) as an artistic intervention. This film by Berlin-based Israeli artists Nir Evron and Omer Krieger can still be viewed on our website. It depicts everyday life in Kibbutz Be’eri, which came to an end on October 7 when many of the kibbutz’s residents were murdered.
Educational Resources
With our educational resources, we want to encourage the discussion of antisemitism and prejudice, enhance knowledge, and advocate for a society free of hatred and resentment.
Guided tours and workshops: https://www.jmberlin.de/en/tours
Programs for school groups: https://www.jmberlin.de/en/programs-for-school-groups
Thematically Relevant Books
Our library contains numerous books on related topics. We have compiled a selection for you in our library catalog (OPAC) (in German).
