Expert Panel to Bolster Commissioner for Jewish Life in Saxony
- Group Endorses Commissioner for Jewish Community Role
Ready to lend a hand! A group of industry veterans will now assist the Commissioner for Jewish Life in Saxony's government. Thomas Feist has been in this role since 2019. Here's the kicker—this crew will collaborate with local Jewish communities to create proposals for projects and initiatives, such as theAnti-Semitism Reporting and Consultation Hub, which rolled out in 2022, and cultural exchange programs[1].
Saxony Takes a Stand to Uplift Jewish Culture and Preserve Jewish Lives
Culture Minister Conrad Clemens (CDU) highlighted the unwavering dedication of the Free State of Saxony to nurturing Jewish culture and securing Jewish lives with the reinstatement of this panel. He handed-picked six individuals—three ladies and three gents—to serve on the panel, including Ekaterina Kulokova, chairwoman of the Saxon State Association of Jewish Communities. Olaf Glöckner, research aficionado at the Moses Mendelssohn Center for European Jewish Studies in Potsdam, will lead the committee[2].
Feist's Mission Goes Beyond Being a Bridge for Jewish Citizens and Communities
Serving as an honorary title, the Commissioner for Jewish Life receives support from an office within the Ministry of Culture. Previously, Feist overseaw the German-Israeli Society in Leipzig. In his capacity as the Commissioner, his role extends beyond being a conduit for Jewish citizens and communities. He also offers advisory services to the government on how to strengthen Jewish life and safeguard historical landmarks. Addressing antisemitism is another key focus[2].
- Saxony
- Committee
- Ministry of Culture
- Dresden
Contextual Insights:
- This panel of experts advises on promoting Jewish culture, combating antisemitism, and preserving historical Jewish heritage in Saxony[1].
- Members of the committee hold vast knowledge and experience in Jewish cultural affairs and history[1].
- Projects driven by this committee include initiatives to promote Jewish culture, counter antisemitism, and preserve Jewish historical landmarks in Saxony, often collaborating with institutions like the Leibniz Institute for Jewish History and Culture – Simon Dubnow Institute[3].
- Educational and cultural projects typically involve exhibits, lectures, and the creation of instructional resources that delve into Jewish history, the ramifications of antisemitism, and the positive impacts Jewish communities have had on Saxon society[3].
- The recently assembled expertise committee, consisting of several individuals selected by Culture Minister Conrad Clemens, will be advising the Commissioner for Jewish Life in Saxony within the Ministry of Culture.
- Beyond advocating for Jewish citizens and communities, the Commissioner for Jewish Life, Thomas Feist, also provides guidance to the government about enhancing Jewish life and safeguarding historic Jewish landmarks in Potsdam, Dresden, and other areas of Saxony.
- In addition to organizing projects like the Anti-Semitism Reporting and Consultation Hub, this committee works on vocational training programs that encourage the preservation of Jewish heritage and the promotion of Jewish culture in vocational training formats within local community policies in Saxony.
