We are living in challenging times… Antisemitism and other forms of hatred continue to be a dangerous part of our world.  We know that antisemitism did not end with the Holocaust, but what is truly alarming is that it continues to permeate our society. Antisemitic rhetoric is rampant, hate-motivated violence continues, and Holocaust history is being distorted by some – and entirely denied by others.
 

These alarming trends of rising antisemitism are occurring at the very same time that we are losing the Holocaust’s eyewitnesses.  As this history recedes in time and we have no more living testimonies, we have to do more to educate current and future generations about the consequences of hate and indifference.
 

I WILL NOT BE SILENT!!  Holocaust history demonstrates how easily hatred can infect a society when left unchecked – when people of conscience choose to remain silent.  The Nazis counted on ordinary citizens’ indifference and silence as they increased persecution against Jews and other groups.  It is essential for people to learn from the past and confront antisemitism.
 

For months, antisemitism has surged on college campuses, in public discourse, in city streets, and online.  The hatred, rhetoric, and violence against Jews is alarming for all of us – and for Holocaust survivors, in particular.
 

In the face of widespread antisemitism and violence, people can see beyond hate to the humanity that binds us.  At a time when antisemitism is escalating at alarming rates in America and around the world, it has never been more important for people to understand where unchecked hatred can lead.
 

Our goal has always been to ensure that the world never forgets the critical lessons of the Holocaust.  We are living in an environment where antisemitic incidents have risen to the highest levels on record. Combined with the fact that there are fewer eyewitnesses with us today who can share their lived experience, the ongoing need is as apparent as ever…
 

Help people understand the gravity of the Holocaust so they will be as alarmed as we are by the surge of dangerous antisemitism around the world. Please, if you still believe that memory has the capacity to transform, that the lessons of the Holocaust provide the basis for exploring the nature of hate and indifference, and that each has the ability and the responsibility to act, then what you do – what we all do – matters…
 

​     “I talk about antisemitism now a lot, because I feel it, and it scares me very much, because I’ve lived it as a child.  I was in constant fear of antisemites.”   -

Rose-Helene Spreiregen, Holocaust Survivor 
 

More than anyone else, individuals who survived the Holocaust understand the threat of antisemitism and why it must not be ignored or accepted.  While the events of recent months are not the same as the Holocaust, they draw upon a hatred of Jews that has existed for thousands of years.  Its persistent nature makes antisemitism unique – and dangerous.
 

Holocaust survivors understand the peril and are rightfully alarmed.  They are sharing their stories so others can learn from the Horror they experienced.  Their efforts are courageous and important.  But survivors cannot do it alone.
 

Holocaust history shows - and recent events reinforce – that while times and technology change, human nature does not.  We must always be aware that dangerous ideology can spread to the mainstream if gone unchallenged. 
 

When faced with antisemitism and hate, individuals can respond and fight back and you can help inspire people to do so.  Through educational and outreach programs, people learn the difference one person can make, as well as the dire consequences of inaction.
 

One of the most powerful ways we teach these lessons is by helping survivors share their experiences.  Countless times people have told me that a conversation with a survivor is what made the Holocaust “real” to them and what inspires them to make positive change.  Survivors understand that their stories are transformative and are determined to keep sharing them. 
 

​     “I do the best I can with the time that I have.  And time is running out.  I’m now 98-years old.” – Frank Cohn, Holocaust Survivor
 

Preserving Holocaust history and teaching its vital lessons has never been more urgent.  Antisemitism, including Holocaust denial, distortion, and glorification have become increasingly prevalent in our society.  Meanwhile the events of the Holocaust are receding in time, making our educational efforts ever more pressing. A recent national study showed that 11 percent of US adults – and more than 1/5 of Americans ages 18-34 – either haven’t heard of, or are not sure they have heard of, the Holocaust!!!  Additionally, 41 percent of all Americans, and 66 percent of Americans ages 18-34, cannot say what Auschwitz was, let alone that more than 1.1 million people were killed there…
 

Today’s outrageous and blatant acts of antisemitism compel us to draw upon the lessons of Holocaust history – and take action.  Antisemitic rhetoric is escalating in its frequency, visibility and intensity. We’re seeing it online and in public spaces, from politicians, athletes, entertainers, and other people of influence.  It is an appalling and dangerous trend.  Too many people lack the foundation of knowledge needed to recognize antisemitic or historically inaccurate messages.
 

Unfortunately, the ability to teach these lessons is becoming increasingly difficult as Holocaust history continues to be distorted and even denied.  As public figures embrace antisemitic rhetoric, we must teach the dangers of letting hatred go unchecked from any quarter, but especially those whose voices have far-reaching platforms and influence.
 

The internet and social media have fostered an environment where antisemitism not only exists, but is spreading quickly and globally.  Conspiracy theories, misinformation and abuse of the Holocaust to advance political and personal agendas have become so common that many people don’t even recognize this rhetoric as offensive and antisemitic.  But we know TRUTH has power; the power to change the way people behave; the power to inspire action in the presence of antisemitism and hate.