The Victoria Holocaust Remembrance and Education Society invites the public to our annual remembrance of Kristallnacht (Night of Broken Glass). This year’s commemoration will take place on Monday, November 9, beginning at 7 p.m. at Congregation Emanu-El Synagogue, 1461 Blanshard Street.
We will be remembering what took place on the evening of November 9, 1938, and carried on through the next day. The planned attacks on Jewish-owned stores, buildings and synagogues in Germany and Austria left broken glass covering the streets and broken lives shattered and forever changed by this tragic destruction that took place as authorities turned a blind eye.
What unfolded on November 9, 1938 was but a hint of what was to come. The tragedy of Kristallnacht reminds us of how quickly lives can be changed and of our continued need for unity and collective vigilance. Kristallnacht not only is a painful scar in the pages of Jewish history but also a lesson for all of humanity to unite in pursuit of peace and speak out against injustice at its first appearance, before it is permitted to manifest into anything larger. This message is particularly significant in today’s world where human tragedy is all too present.
Our program will include a candle lighting ceremony with survivors, second- and third-generation representatives lighting candles for all who perished in the Holocaust. There will be a variety of presenters, musicians, readings and a special, symbolic activity representing hope and resiliency.
Please join us to remember the past and commit to a better future, where we will respect and protect one another and never remain indifferent in the face of injustice of any kind.
For further information, please contact:
Micha Menczer (Vice-President)
Victoria Holocaust Remembrance and Education Society (VHRES)
E-mail: [email protected]
You can read more articles on our interfaith blog. Spiritually Speaking HERE
