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Anti-Semitism dissenters spearhead Second Witness initiative aiding 835 minors and young adults

In cooperation with the Regional Education Office of Moenchengladbach City, a growing number of young individuals are vocally combating antisemitism. Since May 2024, approximately 474 children and youth have attended 20 workshops provided by the association Zweitzeugen e.V., transforming into...

Campaign against Anti-Semitic Incidents Aids 835 Minors and Youths
Campaign against Anti-Semitic Incidents Aids 835 Minors and Youths

Anti-Semitism dissenters spearhead Second Witness initiative aiding 835 minors and young adults

In the heart of Mönchengladbach, a unique educational project has been making waves, reaching over 800 children and young people since its inception in 2023. The project, a collaboration between local schools and the Zweitzeugen organisation, has been instrumental in fostering a deeper understanding of the Holocaust and the value of civil courage in a diverse society.

Johanna Wassenhoven, a student from Gymnasium am Geroweiher, was one of the many participants who found the project profoundly impactful. Her encounter with eyewitness Eva Weyl during a Zweitzeugen workshop two years ago left a lasting impression on her.

Johanna's personal project involved interviewing eyewitnesses of the NS era who were living in a local nursing home. She prepared and transcribed the conversations, editing them into audio clips that served as a valuable resource for teachers and her fellow students.

The project has conducted 35 workshops since its cooperation with the Regional Education Office in 2023, with many more planned for Gladbacher schools in 2025 and 2026. These workshops cover topics such as civil courage, the importance of a diverse society, and the significance of remembering the Holocaust and its victims.

Ksenia Eroshina from Zweitzeugen e.V. highlighted that these education projects have inspired action among participants. She stated, "The stories of Holocaust survivors have a powerful impact on people. They encourage empathy, understanding, and a commitment to standing up for what is right."

The Deputy Mayor for Education, Culture, and Sports, Christiane Schüßler, expressed her gratitude to the project's sponsors and emphasised the importance of the project's mission. "The remembrance of the Holocaust and the fates of its victims is crucial in ensuring that freedom and democracy are not taken for granted," she said. "Everyone has a role to play in preserving and passing on these stories to future generations."

For more information about Zweitzeugen and its projects, visit www.zweitzeugen.de. The project continues to make a difference in the lives of young people in Mönchengladbach, inspiring them to be agents of change and advocates for understanding and empathy.

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