Anti-Jewish measures
At the beginning of the Occupation, the Nazis basically let
the Jews go about their business. This all changes in October 1940. Civil servants must sign an official declaration stating whether they are Jewish or not. Just like in Germany earlier on, Jewish civil servants and teachers are fired from their jobs. At the beginning of 1941, all Jews in the Netherlands must register. In this way, the Occupier, knows exactly where all the Jews live.
Anne writes:
“You couldn't do this and you couldn't do that, but life went on. Jacque always said to me: ‘I don't dare do anything anymore, 'cause I'm afraid it's not allowed.’”
Business ownership is banned
Beginning in October 1940, Jews may no longer own their businesses. Using a clever construction, Otto Frank succeeds in keeping Opekta and Pectacon out of the hands of the Germans. This arrangement also allows him to remain active in the business, but from behind the scenes. A few months later, the company moves to 263 Prinsengracht.
To a separate Jewish School
After the summer of 1941, Margot and Anne are required to attend the Jewish High School. The Occupier forbids Jewish students from going to the same schools as non-Jewish children. This is the first time the Frank sisters attend the same school.
Jewish star
In addition, at the beginning of May 1942, they are forced to wear a yellow star with the word “Jew” prominently displayed on their clothing. On June 12th 1942 is Anne Frank's birthday; she turns 13. On that day she receives a gift from her parents that she really wants: a June diary. She immediately begins writing in it.
Anti-Jewish Decrees
In her diary, Anne writes a list of things that are no longer permitted:
“Our freedom was severely restricted by a series of anti-Jewish decrees: Jews were required to wear a yellow star; Jews were required to turn in their bicycles; Jews were forbidden to use trams; Jews were forbidden to ride in cars, even their own; Jews were required to do their shopping between 3:00 and 5:00 P.M.; Jews were required to frequent only Jewish-owned barbershops and beauty parlors; Jews were forbidden to be out on the streets between 8:00 P.M. and 6:00 A.M.; Jews were forbidden to attend theaters, movies or any other forms of entertainment; Jews were forbidden to use swimming pools, tennis courts, hockey fields or any other athletic fields; Jews were forbidden to go rowing; Jews were forbidden to take part in any athletic activity in public; Jews were forbidden to sit in their gardens or those of their friends after 8:00 P.M.; Jews were forbidden to visit Christians in their homes; Jews were required to attend Jewish schools, etc.”
Anne and Margot Frank, Merwedeplein, Amsterdam 1940