Topic
Summary
The oral histories and first-hand accounts of survivors of major historical events like the Holocaust offer powerful, deeply personal insights. They provide students a human connection to history and create learning experiences they’re likely to remember for years. As fewer living survivors remain, it is fortunate that children and other descendants of survivors are also able and willing to share their families’ stories.
Echoes & Reflections offers an eight-step guide to prepare educators and students for hosting a survivor or descendant in the classroom. Preparation begins with establishing historical context by defining the Holocaust, reviewing key events and timelines, and discussing the importance of personal narratives.
It’s also essential to create a respectful and supportive environment. This includes preparing students for emotionally difficult content, developing thoughtful questions, and ensuring the speaker’s privacy and comfort. Emphasizing humanity and resilience, and not just suffering, helps students appreciate a survivor’s full life story and the strengths of individuals who rebuild after trauma.
Reflection is also central to this experience. Journaling can help students prepare before and process after. Post-visit activities, such as participating in initiatives against intolerance or sending letters to the speaker, further student learning. Finally, revisiting the purpose and power of storytelling reminds students that hearing a firsthand account is a privilege and that it affords them the responsibility of acting as informed witnesses to history.
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