200 years of Jewish emancipation: exhibition opens in Fulda

200 years of Jewish emancipation: exhibition opens in Fulda

On October 10, 2025, numerous visitors gathered at Heinrich-von-Bibra-Platz in Fulda to celebrate the reopening of the exhibition “200 Years of Emancipation of the Jews in Fulda and the Region”. This event is not only a homage to past history, but also an important step in actively combating anti-Semitism and discrimination. The aim of the exhibition is to bring regional history into public awareness and to emphasize the importance of Jewish life in Germany East Hesse News reported.

The exhibition was organized in close collaboration with the university, state and city libraries as well as Dr. Michael Imhof from the association “Future Education Fulda e.V.” republished and is accessible until November 30, 2025. During the opening ceremony, Prof. Dr. Martina Ritter emphasized the great importance of the exhibition for commemorating the Shoah and the normality of Jewish life in Germany. Whether through biographical examples or the discussion of political decisions towards equality for Jews in Fulda - the exhibition gives us deep insights into the history of Jewish emancipation.

A look at emancipation

Jewish emancipation, a process that led Jews from a marginal position to equality in society, began around the 18th century with the Haskalah in Berlin and Königsberg. These developments are inspiringly exchanged with the experiences of the Jewish communities in Fulda. Loud Wikipedia Jews have long been discriminated against legally, religiously and socially, and the Enlightenment and the ideas of the French Revolution paved the way for their equality as citizens.

In the 19th century, both legal and social momentum emerged to improve the status of Jews. Despite this progress, there were repeated setbacks, such as economic discrimination or the Hep-Hep riots of 1819, which were triggered by the public debate about emancipation. In imperial times, Jews in Germany, as well as in Fulda, were often the target of prejudice and violence despite their civil rights, according to the account in bpb.de.

Events dedicated to emancipation

As part of the exhibition, there will be a lecture by Dr. Michael Imhof on the topic of “Jewish life in Fulda during the time of National Socialism”. It is advisable to register in advance, as experience shows that places fill up quickly. Admission to all events and the exhibition is free, underlining the region's commitment to education and commemoration.

The reopening of this exhibition and the events that take place around it are crucial. They not only highlight the history of Jewish emancipation, but also invite you to reflect on the past and learn lessons for the present. At a time when discrimination and prejudice are becoming more visible again in society, this culture of remembrance is essential.