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๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฑ Israel /Culture & Society

German postal service reverses decision on anti-antisemitism Star of David stamp

From Jerusalem Post · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Outcome reported
  • Deutsche Post initially rejected a customer's request for a Star of David design on an individualized stamp, citing political or ethical incorrectness.
  • The company reversed its decision after public inquiry, stating the rejection was not due to the design's nature but adherence to guidelines against political campaigns.
  • Deutsche Post affirmed its strong stance against antisemitism and committed to reviewing its internal processes for clearer application of design guidelines.

Deutsche Post, a brand of DHL Group, has reversed an initial rejection of a customer's request for a Star of David design on an individualized stamp. The company had previously told resident Barbara Schaumberger that the design was "politically or ethically incorrect."

Unfortunately, we have to reject your stamp order

โ€” Deutsche PostThe initial rejection message sent to the customer.

Schaumberger had sought to use a logo from a Munich initiative that combats antisemitism, featuring a pink Jewish star and the words 'antisemitism, count me out.' She intended the stamps to draw attention to the campaign among her acquaintances.

in light of the particular societal significance of the issue at hand, we have reviewed the case again and decided to approve the individualized stamp.

โ€” Deutsche Post spokespersonExplaining the company's decision to reverse its rejection.

Following media inquiries, Deutsche Post stated that the original rejection was a misunderstanding and not based on the design's content. A spokesperson explained that the decision was solely due to internal review criteria and design guidelines, which generally prohibit stamps from serving as platforms for political or social campaigns. This policy aims to prevent abusive, discriminatory, or divisive content.

the claim that the design was rejected because it was considered politically or ethically incorrect is absolutely false.

โ€” Deutsche Post spokespersonClarifying the reason for the initial rejection.

Deutsche Post affirmed its unequivocal opposition to antisemitism and all forms of discrimination. The company announced it would review its guidelines and internal processes to ensure consistent application. The customer will now receive her individualized stamp with the approved design.

is generally not intended to serve as a platform for political or social campaigns.

โ€” Deutsche Post spokespersonExplaining the company's design guidelines.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Jerusalem Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.