Europe is at a crossroads. While polarization, exclusion and anti-Semitism are on the rise, the longing for cohesion, attitude and genuine community is growing. This is precisely where MENTSH UNITED comes in - as a cultural, social and musical response to indifference, lack of empathy and dwindling trust in a pluralistic society.
But MENTSH UNITED is more than just a reaction. It is a vision. An invitation to actively participate instead of just consuming. But what is actually behind the name? What does it mean to be a Mentsh? And how does it become a movement that moves people?
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What does "Mentsh" actually mean?
Mentsh is a Yiddish term - deeply rooted in Jewish culture, but open and accessible to all. Literally translated, it simply means "human being", but in Jewish usage it means much more: a mentsh is someone who acts with decency, integrity and a sense of responsibility.
A Mentsh is empathetic, honest, considerate and does not act out of self-interest, but out of conviction. At a time when social media often emphasize surface over substance, the term reminds us that it's the inner values that matter.
Being a Mentsh also means being there for others, taking a stand, even when it becomes uncomfortable. It is an attitude against cynicism, against looking away, against indifference. And that is precisely why this concept is so central to our work.
And why "United"?
United stands for cohesion, for togetherness, for a common voice in a world that often seems divided. It is no coincidence that the term comes from sport: there, "United" means team spirit, loyalty and joint action - across differences.
In a European context, "United" means for us: not only tolerating cultural, religious and social diversity, but understanding it as a wealth. United means: we stand together, we listen to each other, we shape things together.
In the face of growing tensions in Europe, we need movements that stand for solidarity, openness and pluralism more than ever. MENTSH UNITED is exactly that: an answer to division through a new us.
MENTSH UNITED is more than just a name
When we say MENTSH UNITED, we don't just mean a project, we mean a program. A cultural, political and emotional initiative. MENTSH UNITED was born as a reaction to the rise of anti-Semitic attitudes, especially after October 7, 2023, when Jewish life in Europe was increasingly called into question.
Our aim is to make Jewish perspectives visible and audible - in the midst of society.
As our first project, we are bringing together 13 musicians from all over Europe to create an emotional, musical experience that touches and connects.
Our Head of Sound is SHANTEL! He is known from Disko Partizani and the Bucovina Club. He is the one who brought global pop to festival stages and completely reinvented club culture. With Shantel, migration doesn't sound like politics, but like partying and hedonism: Southeast Europe, the Middle East, the Mediterranean - everything becomes a soundtrack that you not only hear, but feel. With MENTSH UNITED, he combines cultures, quotes traditions and drops a modern sound that makes you dance and think. Not a concert - an experience, a spectacle of a special kind! The first single is already available to stream everywhere.
MENTSH UNITED creates spaces for encounters and exchange. It is a place for all those who don't just want to watch, but want to help shape things. For people who feel: It's not enough to be against hate. You also have to stand for something.
If you want to be there, check our event page regularly, where we add more LIVE dates. [Link to events]
What does this have to do with "Tikkun Olam"?
At the center of our vision is a concept that is deeply rooted in Jewish thought: Tikkun Olam. It means "repairing the world" - the idea that everyone has a responsibility to make the world a better place.
For MENTSH UNITED, Tikkun Olam is not just an idea, but a mission. We believe that music has the power to touch people, build bridges and change perspectives. That is why we use art as a tool to bring about change - not abstractly, but in a very concrete and tangible way.
Whether in schools, on stages or in public spaces: our work is intended to provide inspiration, initiate conversations and encourage people. For empathy. For humanity. For a Europe that lives and protects its diversity.
Why MENTSH UNITED is needed
Because our world needs people who don't turn away.
Because Jewish life in Europe must not be marginalized.
Because music is a language that connects where words often fail.
And because it takes courage to be a Mentsh - especially today.
MENTSH UNITED is both an invitation and an answer.
An invitation to join in, to listen, to belong.
A response to hatred, division and indifference - with music, attitude and heart.
#BeAMentsh - and be part of the movement.
Loud. Proud. Jewish.
