Today is International Holocaust Remembrance Day.While it is vital that we remember the events of The Shoah and, with dignity and solemnity, remember the victims, I believe it is equally important to remember and commemorate those individuals who chose to shelter and help people of the Jewish faith were at risk of capture and death at the hands of the Nazis.The integrity, courage, and creativity of these people and communities were weighed in the balance at the moment of maximum danger was not found wanting.On this day, we also need to consider the circumstances that led to the "othering" of the Jewish people and resist the othering of marginalized communities in our own time.Antisemitism in our world is ancient and continues to this day. It is the reason I stand with a democratic and secure Israel.Other communities are at risk of being othered. Look at some of the rhetoric in certain media outlets and on social media. I don't consider this rhetoric hyperbole but pointed threats to various communities. As librarians and information professionals, we are in a unique position to help combat this othering. We can use our agency, advocacy and skill to help combat false information, which can lead to the isolation and marginalization of at-risk communities. We also must use the tools we have to help create a more diverse and inclusive profession. On this International Holocaust Remembrance Day, let us all show that we have truly learned the lessons of The Shoah. This would be the greatest tribute to those whose only known grave is a field of ashes.
The Communities That Risked Everything to Rescue Jews - WSJ
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Eugene Giudice
Research Services Training Specialist
Dentons
(312) 876-7384
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