Hamilton Jewish Federation Holocaust Education Committee
Established in 1993 our committee is committed to preserving the memories and legacies of the past to ensure that the lessons of the Holocaust will never be forgotten or repeated.
The Holocaust Education Committee sponsors lectures, films, commemorations and other programs focusing on the Holocaust as a platform for tolerance and reaches a multi-ethnic and multi-religious audience, fostering respect and social harmony in an effort to build a more peaceful and tolerant world. If you would like to join the committee, please contact Elaine Levine at 905-627-9922, ext 24 or email elevine@jewishhamilton.org.
Awards and Recognition
Sharon Enkin Award: presented annually to an elementary or secondary teacher in any discipline who has demonstrated a commitment to teaching students about the Holocaust and its important lessons for humankind. An award of $500 will be presented at our Annual Holocaust Student Symposium at Mohawk College in May.
Holocaust Education Committee Award of Distinction: Presented to an individual or group that has made distinguished contributions to their community and Canada as a passionate Holocaust and Human Rights Champion, dedicated to combating antisemitism and racism in the “Service of Humanity”.
Programs
Holocaust Education Week – An annual week of programs in November that commemorates Kristallnacht with lectures, films and cultural programs offered in a variety of venues in Hamilton
Educator Workshops and Resources – The committee works in collaboration with Hamilton (and area) School Boards and provides opportunities for Elementary and Secondary Teachers to learn and share new teaching strategies on the Holocaust and provide educational and resources.
Annual Student Symposium on the Holocaust - The HEC presents an annual Symposium for Students in Hamilton and area. This half-day program consists of a historical overview of the Holocaust, Survivor Testimony and a Question & Answer period.
Survivor Speakers Bureau – Upon request, the Holocaust Education Committee coordinates local Holocaust survivors to speak at schools and a variety of organizations and give eye-witness testimony about their experiences during the Holocaust.
International Holocaust Remembrance Day
Hamilton’s Asper Human Rights and Holocaust Studies Program
High school applicants take part in a series of preparatory sessions on Human Rights and the Holocaust, participate in a four day trip to Washington, D.C. including a full day at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, complete a community service project and attend a Graduation Ceremony.
March of the Living – A two week educational experience in Poland and Israel with hundreds of Canadian students each year to mark two of the most important dates in Jewish History.