New York State enhances Holocaust and genocide education with special learning event

The New York State Education Department recently convened a professional learning event aiming to enhance Holocaust and genocide education across the state. Held at the Anne Frank Annex exhibit at the Center for Jewish History in New York City, the event offered educators an immersive experience in Holocaust history.

Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young, Jr. highlighted the importance of the initiative, stating, “This initiative highlights the critical role of Holocaust education as a cornerstone of civics instruction, emphasizing the importance of equipping students to confront the injustices of history to cultivate a just, more accountable society."

Commissioner Betty A. Rosa emphasized the role of Holocaust education in developing empathy and critical thinking among students. Rosa stated, "Holocaust education is critical for ensuring that we never forget about the atrocities of the past but also for developing students' empathy, critical thinking, and awareness of the dangers of intolerance and prejudice – none of which have a place in our society."

The event gathered educators, collaboration with Holocaust education experts to deepen their understanding of the subject and improve student engagement strategies. It was primarily aimed at superintendents, curriculum directors, and educators specializing in the field.

Looking ahead, the Department plans to release a resource on the “Consider the Source” platform featuring updated curricular materials for Holocaust and genocide instruction. This will complement the learning event by providing practical strategies for utilizing these digital resources.

Dr. Gavriel Rosenfeld, President of the Center for Jewish History, remarked on the commitment of educators, stating, "The educators who gathered at the Center for Jewish History today are deeply committed to learning from history and combatting antisemitism and other forms of hatred."

Dr. Doyle Stevick, Director of the Anne Frank Center at The University of South Carolina, underscored the contemporary relevance of Anne Frank's legacy. He said, "Anne Frank The Exhibition reminds us that antisemitism is the form of hatred that drove the Frank family into hiding and is still very much present in our world today."

For further details on the State Education Department's Holocaust instruction resources, individuals are encouraged to visit the Social Studies Guidance & Resources webpage.