Each year in Mr. Kober’s World History and AP US History classes and Mrs. Humiston’s Pre-AP English 10 and AP Language and Composition classes, studying the Holocaust is a vital part of their curricula. Learning about this time period from different perspectives gives the students a deeper understanding of the historical context as well as a greater compassion for those affected by this terrible event. Some of their students even turned learning into action.
In April, B’nai B'rith held its annual Capital Area Holocaust essay contest that is open to students in grades 10-12 in area counties stretching from Greene and Columbia to Hamilton and Warren counties. Recently, 10th grade student Ella Hens was named this year’s third place finisher. The essay topic asked students to Identify a Holocaust survivor, rescuer, or witness. What is the most important question you would ask them about the danger of silence? Why is their perspective important as a warning for students in the 21st Century?
Ella’s essay entitled The Danger of Silence speaks about Róża Robota who was sent to Auschwitz and “became a leader and a symbol of hope for many of the incarcerated victims in Auschwitz-Birkenau.” Hens identified Robota’s bravery as an example for why education is vital citing the ongoing challenges and injustices we continue to witness today.
In May, several students attended a talk given by a Holocaust survivor Rena Bernstein at the Crandall Library. Bernstein recounted her life as a very young girl as the Nazi's invaded Poland. She spoke of her parents' struggle for survival and her reuniting with them due solely to the assistance of those willing to put their own lives on the line to protect Jewish citizens of Poland. It was an emotional yet inspiring evening listening to Rena Bernstein’s testament of strength as she recounted her story. We are privileged to have heard her speak.
These powerful experiences—both through Ella’s award-winning writing and the deeply moving evening with Rena Bernstein—bridge the gap between history books and the real world. By studying the heroes of the past and listening to the voices of those who survived, these students are doing far more than fulfilling a curriculum requirement. They are discovering that history is a living lesson, and they are carrying forward the vital reminder that silence is never an option when confronting injustice.
