In the latest episode of the podcast The Heart of the Nieuwmarkt neighbourhood Chantal Runne is our guest: entrepreneur, conflict mediator and bridge-builder between the Jewish and Islamic communities in Amsterdam. Host Irma Thomas and sidekick Jim Zielinski welcome her to the Tim Cantor Gallery, a stone's throw from Nieuwmarkt metro station.

The Nieuwmarkt district as the heart of the old Jewish quarter

The Nieuwmarkt neighbourhood in Amsterdam is the historic heart of the old Jewish quarter, from the Nieuwmarkt to Waterlooplein, Uilenburg, and the Waag. Much of that history disappeared after the war and urban renewal, but those who know where to look can still see the traces everywhere. In buildings, in the names of places, and in the language. Because words like 'gozer' (lad), 'gajes' (scum) and 'chutzpah' come directly from Yiddish. Amsterdammers use these words daily without knowing where they originate. Amsterdam's Jewish history is hidden in the way we talk to each other. 

Chantal also talks about Maria Nunes, a woman considered to be Amsterdam's first migrant. A woman from the sixteenth century with a remarkable life story, who fled the country where she was not allowed to be Jewish. And a reminder that the Nieuwmarkt district has always been a place where people sought a fresh start.

Building bridges between Jewish and Islamic communities in Amsterdam

Chantal Runne has been working for over twenty-five years to foster connection between different population groups in Amsterdam, including between the Jewish and Islamic communities. In the current geopolitical situation, that hasn't become any easier. But she's also noticed something else: at moments of tension, she receives support from circles where you might not immediately expect it. From imams to community workers, people with whom she has built a relationship send her a message. “Sometimes peace is made one person at a time,” she says. And that is precisely why she continues.

Tikkun Olam in 180 Amsterdammers

The Jewish concept of Tikkun Olam, making the world whole, is more than an idea for Chantal. It's a personal life mission, even if you can never finish it. She also translated that conviction into practice: commissioned by Mayor Van der Laan, she mapped out all the city's nationalities with the book '180 Amsterdammers'. The common factor? Their love for Amsterdam. Because migrants in Amsterdam often feel more like Amsterdammers than Dutch people.

Humour as part of Jewish history in Amsterdam

Despite the serious themes, the conversation never becomes too heavy. Humour is part of Jewish history in Amsterdam: as a survival strategy, but also as a way to connect. Chantal warns in advance that she will probably offend a number of religious leaders she knows, and then tells a joke about Sien and Saar on the Red Light District.

Watch and listen to the full conversation above.
Or listen here one of our other podcasts with entrepreneurs from the neighbourhood!