Israel and Palestine in Berlin: Education and Political Pedagogy on (Israel-related) Antisemitism
Is the Middle East conflict a topic at your school? Do you feel overwhelmed by its complexity and the intense emotions surrounding discussions and debates about it? Do your students feel that they cannot speak freely about the situation in Israel and Palestine? Do some feel intimidated or threatened?
We offer you and your students a space to express emotions, thoughts, and perceptions.
Our project, “Israel and Palestine in Berlin” is aimed at teachers and students in Berlin. The goal is to prevent antisemitic discrimination, which has risen in Germany since October 7. Many young people also report experiences of anti-Muslim racism— a form of discrimination that is closely intertwined with (Israel-related) antisemitism in public debates about the Middle East conflict. Our project provides space for the diverse experiences of young people. Based on these experiences, we aim to foster a critical approach to information in (social) media and public discourse.
Through our work in classrooms, we seek to promote empathy, awareness of discrimination, and mutual understanding. At the same time, we offer an engaging and meaningful experience where every perspective matters.
In professional development sessions for educators and workshops for students, we provide practical methods and space for open discussions. Participation in these workshops and training sessions is free of charge.
The project is funded by the “Aktionsfond gegen Antisemitismus” of the Berliner Senatsverwaltung für Kultur und Gesellschaftlichen Zusammenhalt.
The workshop provides a space for students from grade 9 onwards to engage in moderated discussions about the Middle East conflict, allowing them to express emotions, fears, and perceptions of injustice. Based on this exchange, participants are supported in distinguishing between criticism of Israeli policies and antisemitism, especially in the context of polarized debates. At the same time, the workshop raises awareness of the dangers of antisemitic projections related to Israel.
Additionally, the workshop creates a space to address racist attributions, which frequently arise in societal discussions. The workshop concept is specifically designed for students in lower and upper secondary education.
These training sessions are aimed at teachers and other educational professionals who wish to deepen their knowledge of antisemitism and racism in the context of debates about Israel and Palestine while also reflecting on their own positions and emotions.
Participants will be introduced to approaches and methods that help facilitate discussions in educational settings and navigate challenging perspectives and situations. In this way, the training provides practical support for educators and raises awareness of the diverse realities, experiences, and emotions of young people.
ufuq.de
ipb@ufuq.de
