Yad Vashem, the renowned World Holocaust Remembrance Center in Jerusalem, has been actively engaged in Holocaust remembrance and education since its establishment in 1953.
Recently, amid the ongoing conflict in Israel, the center has drawn parallels between current events and the atrocities of Nazi Germany.
Mia Schem, a 21-year-old French-Israeli woman, likened her experience of being held captive by Hamas to a holocaust, emphasizing the enduring relevance of Holocaust education. Dr. Robert Rozett, a senior historian at Yad Vashem's International Institute for Holocaust Research, stressed the importance of teaching fundamental aspects of the Holocaust to address contemporary trauma effectively.
Following the outbreak of conflict on October 7, Yad Vashem, through its Echoes & Reflections project, collaborated with educators to develop resources linking the current situation to Holocaust history. These materials aim to combat antisemitism and Holocaust inversion, which equates Israel with Nazi Germany, by highlighting the dangers of dormant antisemitism and the propagation of false narratives.
Cheryl Silver Ochayon, project director of Echoes & Reflections, underscored the need for proactive measures to counter genocide and promote allyship. Drawing parallels to historical events like Kristallnacht, she emphasized the importance of speaking out against injustice and supporting marginalized communities.
In a heartening display of solidarity, Project Menorah, an initiative encouraging allies to show support for the Jewish community, gained traction globally. Participants displayed menorahs in their windows as a symbol of unity and solidarity.
In response to the conflict's impact on education, Yad Vashem collaborated with Israel's Ministry of Education to establish The Path of Education, a school providing refuge to displaced children. Located within Yad Vashem's International School for Holocaust Studies, the institution offers a supportive environment for students affected by the conflict.
Shani Lourie Farhi, the school's principal, highlighted the challenges faced by displaced children, including separation anxiety and transitory living situations. Despite these obstacles, Yad Vashem's dedicated educators strive to provide stability and support through art therapy and tailored curricula.
Yael Richler, a volunteer teacher at The Path of Education, emphasized the importance of fostering a sense of normalcy and routine for students amidst upheaval. Despite the challenges, the school's compassionate approach has garnered praise from visitors, reflecting its commitment to nurturing and educating children in times of crisis.