Chief Rabbi leads service in honour of German Jewish footballer murdered at Auschwitz
Commemorative service held at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday evening, marking 80 years since Julius Hirsch was killed by the Nazis.
The fierce rivalry that exists between England and Germany in the world of football was put firmly to one side this week as Chelsea and Borussia Dortmund joined forces to send a powerful message in the fight against antisemitism.
Before the teams kicked off their Champions League clash at Stamford Bridge, the Chief Rabbi, Ephraim Mirvis, led a commemorative service for Julius Hirsch, marking 80 years since the German footballer was murdered at Auschwitz-Birkenau.
The Chief Rabbi delivered a prayer of remembrance and light a yahrzeit candle.
Mirvis, who was presented with a commemorative scarf by representatives of Bundesliga club Dortmund, told the Jewish News: “This was a very moving ceremony, remembering Julius Hirsch and other German footballers who were murdered at Auschwitz.
“Chelsea and Dortmund have come together to remember the past for the sake of the future, and the statement they are making is enormous. The more we articulate our denouncing of antisemitism, of all forms of Xenophobia and racism, the more it is going to be heard.
“We have seen at Stamford Bridge a significant improvement over the past number of years, and this is as a direct consequence of the pro-active stance that has been taken by this club. Well done Chelsea.
“I am also so moved by Borussia Dortmund, bearing in mind their past. Their sentiments come from the heart and it has been exceptionally moving for me to be part of this.”
Both clubs were also in Parliament at the beginning of the week, discussing this commitment alongside the Lord Speaker of the House of Lords, Kick It Out and the World Jewish Congress.
Chelsea director Jonathan Goldstein said: “The fight against racism and antisemitism is ongoing and Chelsea has been at the forefront of that fight within the football community and across wider society. In January 2018, we launched Say No To Antisemitism – a consolidated campaign and programme that was adaptable to other clubs, sports and countries.
“We looked at good practice across different sectors and countries and worked with partners to create a wide-ranging campaign, focusing on education, support and awareness with the message that discrimination has no place in our club or society, thereby creating a welcoming and safe environment for fans.”
Chelsea won 2-0 on Tuesday night, and 2-1 on aggregate, to progress to the quarter-finals of the Champions League.
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