German Left Party Faces Antisemitism Scrutiny in Berlin Coalition Debate

A Jewish author expresses doubt that a left-wing government coalition in Berlin would adequately represent Jewish citizens like himself. The author questions whether Die Linke is genuinely prepared to confront antisemitism within its own party ranks. The personal reflection is set during Yom Kippur, the holiest Jewish holiday, when the author attends synagogue services. Weakened by the 25-hour fast, he describes becoming a "resonating body" as the organ fills the prayer hall and the cantor and choir sing. The cantor then leads the Vidui, the central confession prayer, with the words "Aschamnu, Bagadnu" ("We have sinned, we have acted treacherously"). Worshippers strike their left breast with a fist, symbolically acknowledging their transgressions over the past year. The prayer is recited in the plural because it addresses both individual and communal failings. The author's account highlights the tension between his desire for a left-wing coalition and his concerns about antisemitism within Die Linke. The article appears in the current issue of Der Freitag.