Ajax Fans’ Strange Jewish Identity Leads to Anti-Semitic Soccer Attacks

In the realm of sports, a peculiar phenomenon unfolds with Ajax, a prominent Dutch soccer club deeply intertwined with Jewish symbolism and identity. Despite most of its fans not being Jewish, they proudly embrace the Jewish culture, adorning themselves with symbols like the Star of David and chanting “Jews, Jews, Jews” before matches. This unique association traces back to the postwar years when Amsterdam, a historically Jewish city, witnessed a significant Jewish presence. Ajax, with its innovative total football style and iconic players like Johan Cruyff, emerged as a powerhouse, garnering support from the Jewish community.

The historical context of Amsterdam as a safe haven for Jews, including its protection of Anne Frank during World War II, contrasts sharply with the recent anti-Semitic attacks that unfolded in the city. Following a match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv, Israeli fans were targeted by organized groups, leading to violent assaults reminiscent of a pogrom. The irony of such attacks in a city once known for its Jewish refuge highlights the resurgence of anti-Semitism and the failure to protect the Jewish community.

The intertwining of philo-Semitism and anti-Semitism in Ajax’s history reflects a complex narrative where the club’s Jewish identity becomes a target for malicious taunts from rival clubs. The use of anti-Semitic chants and gestures during matches underscores the persistence of deep-rooted prejudices despite efforts to celebrate Jewish heritage within the club. This strange duality of admiration and bigotry exemplifies a broader societal trend where marginalized groups are appropriated for entertainment or subjected to discrimination once again.

The recent wave of anti-Semitic violence in Amsterdam, captured in various media outlets, underscores a disturbing global trend of rising anti-Semitism. However, the response to these attacks has been marred by ambivalence and victim-blaming, with some attempts to downplay the anti-Semitic nature of the assaults. The justification of violence based on provocative actions by the victims reflects a concerning normalization of anti-Jewish sentiment and violence, perpetuating a culture of indifference towards such atrocities.

Notably, these attacks coincided with the Dutch commemoration of Kristallnacht, further underscoring the painful irony of failing to protect the Jewish community on a day marked by remembrance of past atrocities. The disregard for the safety and dignity of actual Jews in the face of targeted violence highlights a troubling regression in societal attitudes towards anti-Semitism, demanding a renewed commitment to combating bigotry and safeguarding vulnerable communities.