Speakers, audience, highlight acts of resistance in Yom HaShoah event at UHC sanctuary – United Hebrew Congregation Terre Haute

Thanks to Scott Skillman for organizing and to Ken Turetzky for emceeing such a meaningful Yom HaShoah program April 16 in our UHC sanctuary.

The theme of the program was not only remembrance of the Holocaust and other atrocities, but learning about acts of resistance, while encouraging us to continue to resist oppression in our world today.

It was so heartening to see the sanctuary filled with supportive community members coming together, actively taking a stand against antisemitism and racism.

It was so heartening to see the sanctuary filled with supportive community members coming together, actively taking a stand against antisemitism and racism.

Co-sponsors included CANDLES Holocaust Museum and Education Center, Inter-Faith Council of the Wabash Valley, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and the Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.

Pardubice Torah is a symbol of survival

Scott brought out the 1880 Pardubice Torah rescued from the Czech Republic by the Memorial Scrolls Trust that is also a symbol of survival and resistance.

Dr. Arthur Feinsod discussed the making of his play Coming to See Aunt Sophie, based on the true story of Jan Karski and his activities with the Polish underground and courageous efforts to alert authorities about the Holocaust.

Dr. Alex Kor shared memories of his parents, Holocaust survivors Eva and Mickey Kor.

CANDLES Executive Director Troy Fears spoke of the museum’s outreach, particularly to schools and children.

Dr. Alex Kor, continuing the work of CANDLES as a member of its board, shared memories of his parents, Holocaust survivors Eva and Mickey Kor.

Historic uprisings provide inspiration

Local historian Dr. Crystal Reynolds gave moving accounts of the 1811 German Coast Uprising of enslaved persons in Louisiana, drawing parallels with the 1943 Bialystok Ghetto Uprising.

Dr. Crystal Reynolds reminded us of the importance of the language we use to describe freedom fighters, and to recognize their humanity.

Dr. Reynolds reminded us of the importance of the language we use to describe freedom fighters and to recognize their resistance and humanity, rather than dismissing a revolt as a “failure.”

Students from the Terre Haute South Vigo High School STAND club remembered the victims of the Holocaust through a moving memorial candle-lighting ceremony.

Dr. Lori Henson of Indiana State University’s communication department reminded us of the importance of a free press, both historically and today, to make sure we do not repeat the past.

Constructive communication helps build coalitions

Sister Emily TeKolste spoke about her organizing work and the importance of communicating in a constructive way with people with whom we disagree.

In addition to the terrific participation of about 80 people in the sanctuary, some took advantage of the Zoom option, joining from as far away as New York and Virginia!

The program struck an important balance in reminding us of the precious lives lost during the Holocaust and impressing us with courageous acts of resistance.

The program struck an important balance in reminding us of the precious lives lost during the Holocaust and impressing us with courageous acts of resistance, both in the past and the present.

Thanks to all the presenters and participants for making this a special event!