Between Hatred and Principles

As head of the Berlin-based initiative against antisemitism KIgA, Derviş Hızarcı has a unique perspective on the developments in Germany that emerged in the wake of October 7th. For years, he has been fighting for an appreciation of diversity and against hatred in the eduction system in a country that is finally beginning to view itself as a migrant society. But once again – just like after September 11 – the familiar dangers are looming: a mainstream society that threatens to succumb to over-simplifications, scapegoating, blame-shifting, and marginalisation. Once again, Hızarcı has to act as a voice for his communities, finding a path between hatred and principles, proposing practical ways of fostering social cohesion in a time of great tension between different communities and identities. Only then can we learn from each other and safeguard a fragile culture of remembrance.

Between Hatred and Principles tells the story of a special educational journey. It begins in Berlin at a time when someone like Derviş Hızarcı is made painfully aware that he does not belong. And it ultimately leads him to take it upon himself to do the unending work of establishing the foundations for a flourishing form of coexistence.
 

» For twenty years, Derviş Hızarcı has lived and taught a practice of tolerance in the fight against hate in all its forms. In a cynical, broken world, his positive, wise, and optimistic voice is urgently needed.« Barrie Kosky

»Derviş manages to connect the self and the collective in a way that makes you feel seen and heard, helping to muster the energy to build bridges. It is only in creating this harmony between the self and the collective that shared values can endure. I am glad that there are people like Derviş who fight for these ideals with so much heart and intelligence.« Igor Levit

» Derviş Hızarcı is the kind of person who sends messages at night because he is worried about some social issue. He puts people in touch with one another, makes recommendations, suggestions, and listens until people come together with whom he can speak out against the dark forces of our age. « Sarah Levy