Borussia Dortmund Honored with German Leo Baeck Award

Recognizing Hans-Joachim Watzke's Dedication to Holocaust Remembrance

In-depth Coverage of the Award Ceremony and its Significance

Borussia Dortmund has been honored with the prestigious German Leo Baeck Award, recognizing the club's unwavering commitment to Holocaust remembrance and the preservation of Jewish heritage. The award ceremony, held at the headquarters of the Central Council of Jews in Germany, celebrated the club's exceptional efforts under the leadership of CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke.

Watzke's Outstanding Contributions

Watzke, who has been at the helm of Borussia Dortmund since 2005, has played a pivotal role in establishing the club's ongoing partnership with the Leo Baeck Foundation. This collaboration has resulted in numerous initiatives aimed at educating and raising awareness about the Holocaust and its victims.

One of the most significant projects under Watzke's guidance has been the creation of the "Remember" (Erinnern) memorial at the club's stadium, Signal Iduna Park. This memorial serves as a powerful reminder of the Jewish community that was once an integral part of Dortmund before being decimated by Nazi persecution.

Leo Baeck Award: A testament to Borussia Dortmund's Commitment

The Leo Baeck Award is bestowed upon individuals and institutions that have made exceptional contributions to fostering understanding between Christians and Jews in Germany. It is named after the renowned rabbi and theologian Leo Baeck, who served as the spiritual leader of Berlin's Jewish community during the Nazi era.

Making History: Borussia Dortmund as the First Sports Club to Receive the Award

Borussia Dortmund holds the distinction of being the first sports club to be honored with the German Leo Baeck Award. This recognition underscores the club's steadfast commitment to social responsibility and its dedication to promoting tolerance and understanding.

Conclusion

The German Leo Baeck Award bestowed upon Borussia Dortmund serves as a testament to the club's unwavering dedication to Holocaust remembrance and its tireless efforts to preserve Jewish heritage. Hans-Joachim Watzke's leadership has been instrumental in shaping the club's commitment to these important causes, setting an example for others to follow.