For decades, the Holocaust Commission of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater has worked to ensure the lessons of the Holocaust are not forgotten. At the heart of this effort is the White Rose Project, an educational initiative that provides books to schools across the region that are designed to deepen students’ knowledge and understanding of one of history’s darkest chapters.
The White Rose Project has been a vital presence in school libraries for 30 years. Named in honor of the White Rose resistance group formed by university faculty and students in Nazi Germany, this initiative has enabled generations of students to gain access to books focusing on the Holocaust. These books enrich discussions as well as encourage independent exploration, allowing students to connect with the stories of victims and survivors on a deeper level.
Each spring, the Holocaust Commission raises funds for the project through the White Rose Campaign, an annual giving initiative that invites community members to make contributions of $360 or less. Every dollar helps ensure that more students can access books that preserve the memory of the Holocaust while cultivating a spirit of empathy and justice.
As antisemitism has drastically increased around the world, initiatives such as the White Rose Project serve as a reminder that education is one of the most powerful tools to combat hate. The ongoing dedication of the Holocaust Commission, UJFT, and the generosity of community donors ensures that the legacy of the White Rose lives on, inspiring students across Tidewater to learn about the Holocaust and to stand up for what is right.
To learn more about the White Rose Project or to donate, contact Elka Mednick, director of the Holocaust Commission, at emednick@ujft.org, or Kyleigh Eyl, coordinator of Advocacy and Community Engagement, at keyl@ujft.org.