Jewish Family “Infuriated” by AfD Moped Campaign

Jewish Family Outraged by AfD’s Use of Iconic Moped Brand

Descendants of the prominent Jewish Simson family have expressed profound anger and dismay over the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party’s appropriation of their family name and the iconic Simson moped brand for political campaigning. The AfD, a party classified as right-wing extremist by Germany’s domestic intelligence service, has increasingly used the Simson name and imagery, sparking outrage among the family who were victims of Nazi persecution.

A Legacy of Industry and Persecution

The Simson family were once influential industrialists in early 20th century Germany. Initially involved in weapons manufacturing, the brothers Julius and Arthur Simson later transitioned to producing automobiles. Their success was tragically cut short by the rise of Nazism. Persecuted for being Jewish, the brothers were forced to relinquish control of their company and flee Germany. Dennis Balm, a descendant of the Simson family, shared a personal connection, recalling meeting Arthur and Julius in his youth, describing them as “really fun-loving people.”

From Communist Icon to Political Symbol

Following World War II, the Simson factory found new life, becoming renowned for its mopeds, which gained immense popularity across communist East Germany. These mopeds became a symbol of freedom and mobility for a generation. However, in recent years, the AfD has co-opted the Simson name, transforming it into a political symbol for their own agenda. This rebranding has deeply disturbed the Simson family, whose legacy is now being tarnished by association with a party widely viewed as antisemitic.

AfD’s Controversial Figure and “Horror Show”

Central to the AfD’s Simson campaign is Björn Höcke, a leading figure within the party. Höcke, known for his controversial statements and far-right ideology, hosts an annual “Simson tour.” For the Simson family, this campaign represents a “horror show.” Dennis Balm articulated the family’s deep offense: “It was infuriating for us all, for the family’s name, a Jewish family’s name to be used by the AfD, a distinctly anti-semitic party, um, antisocial, anti-everything, it seems.”

Holocaust Remembrance and AfD’s Stance

Björn Höcke’s political activities and rhetoric have consistently drawn criticism. He has previously described the Holocaust Memorial in Berlin as a “monument of shame” and advocated for a radical overhaul of Germany’s approach to historical remembrance. This stance directly conflicts with the historical trauma experienced by families like the Simsons. The family is determined to resist this appropriation, with Balm stating, “we’re going to fight to the end to make sure our name is not associated with any of this crude um irreverent um policies of of of the of the AA afd particularly the anti-semitic positions that they’ve taken with great pride.”

AfD Denies Antisemitism Amidst “Symbolic Hysteria”

The AfD has publicly denied accusations of antisemitism. The party has characterized the criticism leveled against its Simson campaign as “symbolic hysteria,” suggesting that the outrage is disproportionate and politically motivated. Despite these denials, the Simson family remains resolute in their opposition, emphasizing the profound historical context and the pain caused by the AfD’s actions.

Future Opposition and Family’s Resolve

The Simson family’s fight against the AfD’s appropriation of their name highlights a broader struggle over historical memory and political identity in Germany. As the AfD continues to leverage symbols of German heritage for its nationalist agenda, the family’s determination serves as a powerful counter-narrative. The ongoing conflict underscores the sensitivity surrounding historical legacies, particularly for families with direct experience of Nazi persecution, and their resolve to protect their name from being exploited by extremist political forces.

Source: Jewish Simson family "infuriated" over AfD moped campaign | DW News (YouTube)