In 2021, we will be celebrating an important anniversary in Germany: The first documented reference to the presence of a Jewish community north of the Alps dates from 321, when Emperor Constantine issued a decree allowing the magistrate of Cologne to admit Jewish members to the town curia. Today, this document is kept in the archives of the Vatican.

On the occasion of this anniversary, we want to show how the Jewish community has helped shape Germany's history and culture to the present day and that Jewish life continues in Germany today despite the complete betrayal of all civilised values during the Shoah. Since antisemitism is making itself increasingly felt and perceptions of the Jewish community are strongly shaped by the past, we want to use this opportunity to highlight present-day Jewish life and enable people to experience its vitality. We also want to combat resentment and stereotypes.

The association “321-2021: 1700 Years of Jewish Life“ initiated the idea of celebrating this anniversary year. Together with cooperation partners, it is organising and coordinating numerous projects and events in Germany which are also supported by the Federal Government. The Commissioner supports the association’s activities as a member of its Board of Trustees. Furthermore, the Commissioner has worked to ensure that a commemorative stamp will be issued in 2021 to highlight the symbolic importance of this anniversary and create a lasting signal, both in and beyond Germany, of our appreciation and fostering of Jewish life.