Does the name Joseph Glatt ring a bell? The Joods Verzetsmonument, or Jewish Resistance Monument, stands here. It is a tribute to the Jewish resistance fighters of World War II.
This monument has stood here since 1988. It marks the corner of the Amstel and Zwanenburgwal. The Stopera building stands right beside it.
Let’s consider its origins. The Stichting Comité Joods Verzet 1940-1945 initiated it in 1986. Jewish resistance fighters Bennie Bluhm and Herman Natkiel founded the group. They gathered funds through newspaper ads.
The location sparked debate. Some preferred the Mozes en Aäronkerk side. Richter Roegholt favored the Waterlooplein area. He felt the resistance occurred near Jodenbreestraat. The location near the bastion seemed historically inaccurate to him.
Dick Dolman unveiled the monument. He was the Speaker of the House. The ceremony took place on October 16, 1988. Amsterdam’s mayor Ed van Thijn attended with hundreds of people.
The Joods Verzetsmonument is the work of Joseph Glatt. Glatt was a stonemason specializing in Jewish tombstones. The monument features a tall black granite pillar. The pillar displays the Tablets of Stone. The front of the pillar bears a text in Hebrew and Dutch. It reads: “In memory of the resistance of the Jewish citizens fallen in 1940-1945, 5700-5705.”
The side of the monument has another inscription. It is also in Dutch and Hebrew. It is a quote from the prophet Jeremiah. It says: “Were my eyes a fountain of tears, then I would weep day and night for the fallen fighters of my dear people.”
The Zwanenburgwal itself has a rich history. It was once the Verversgracht, or dyers’ canal. Textile businesses dominated this area. They hung dyed fabrics to dry along the canal.
Many notable figures lived along the Zwanenburgwal. These included the painters Rembrandt and Karel Appel. Philosopher Baruch de Spinoza also lived here.
From 2009, Kristallnacht commemorations occurred here. These remembered the 1938 attacks on Jews in Germany. Disagreements led to their cessation in 2015.
Each year, the Jewish resistance is honored at this monument. The date is usually near February 25. This is close to the anniversary of the February Strike. The Stichting Vriendenkring Mauthausen organizes the event. They partner with the city of Amsterdam.
The Joods Verzetsmonument is a place for reflection. It reminds us of the courage and sacrifice of Jewish resistance fighters. The monument ensures their stories are never forgotten. It stands as a powerful symbol against oppression. It urges us to remember the past. It inspires us to fight for a better future.