Executive Director’s Blog

Dear ASYV Donors and Supporters,

The end of 2023 finds us at a most difficult time for the Jewish people, and at a pivotal moment for our community. Regrettably, it is also a moment when we must share significant news about the American Society for Yad Vashem.

Effective January 1, 2024, ASYV will no longer be permitted to raise funds or conduct educational programming on behalf of Yad Vashem. This change stems from the unilateral decision by Yad Vashem and its Chairman Dani Dayan to disaffiliate from ASYV and assume direct responsibility for its fundraising in the United States.

Please know that ASYV’s leadership made every effort to persuade Dani Dayan and his board not to disaffiliate. Especially now, as Israel fights a war of self-defense and the Diaspora faces growing antisemitism, we have been calling for Jewish achdut – unity.

But Yad Vashem’s decision cannot dim our profound sense of achievement about our over forty years of support for Yad Vashem and toward our mutual goals of Holocaust remembrance and education.

The numbers only begin to tell ASYV’s amazing story. After the State of Israel, ASYV has been Yad Vashem’s largest funding source, contributing an average of $17.5 million/year over the past three years alone (and this amount had been growing). We contributed nearly $200 million over the past 15 years and more than $300 million since inception. Moreover, in order to ensure the long term financial stability of Yad Vashem, we are proud of both the endowment we have raised in the United States and our substantial contributions to the approximately $100 million endowment that is managed by Yad Vashem in Israel.

The significance of our impact can be best understood by a visit to the Yad Vashem campus. Upon arrival, one passes through the Shapell Visitors Center and then walks along the Halpern Avenue of the Righteous Among the Nations, ultimately arriving at the Wilf History Museum. Leaving, visitors can reflect in the Moskowitz Square of Hope and the Rubenstein Synagogue. ASYV’s mark can be felt in nearly every building and memorial: the International School (Pechter), the Art Museum (Adelson), the Library (Belz), the Children’s Memorial (Spiegel), Survivors Gate (Drukier), Partisan’s Square (Karten) and especially the Valley of the Communities – which ASYV not only conceived but fully funded.

Looking to the future, ASYV donors have made major commitments to the Moshal Legacy Campus, the Shapell Names Collection Center and the Joseph Wilf Curatorial Center. ASYV donors were also among the lead donors to Ir Habahadim. ASYV donors and founders account for 80% of those designated as Patrons, Torchbearers, Visionaries, Pillars and Benefactors by the institution.

Moreover, ASYV created and funded the annual Arfa conference for educators in the US that ran successfully for the past 25 years. We built a fast-growing cohort of dynamic young professionals committed to the advancement of Yad Vashem’s work, and have held countless educational conferences, exhibits, missions and programs and produced meaningful online educational content. We have also published the well-respected periodical Martyrdom and Resistance.

In the last year alone, ASYV funded the Book of Names project at the United Nations and produced a sold-out symphony at Carnegie Hall in the name of Holocaust remembrance.

Friends, this 43-year collaboration has been a resounding success for the Mount of Remembrance and for our shared mission. Deeply saddened though we all may be by Yad Vashem’s disaffiliation decision, we can be proud of the breathtaking tapestry of our shared experiences and accomplishments. It is your commitment and dedication that have fueled them, and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

While Yad Vashem’s decision marks the conclusion of one chapter, we hope it is not the end of our connection. Our collaboration with the current leadership of Yad Vashem may have been ruptured, but the importance of our mission is actually redoubled at a time when the Holocaust is fading further into the past, the survivor generation is passing, and there is a disturbing rise in Holocaust denial and distortion.

So, we encourage you to stay in touch with us to share your memories and reflections as well as your thoughts on the future. You can reach us at info@yadvashemusa.org. Please rest assured that ASYV will continue to honor the terms of all prior pledges and will use all funds previously donated exclusively for the purposes for which they were given. And if you wish to support Yad Vashem directly, please visit yadvashem.org.

We continue to wish Yad Vashem nothing but continued success in the future. It is a sacred institution deserving of ongoing support.

With heartfelt thanks,

The Executive Committee of the American Society for Yad Vashem

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this finds you well. On Thursday morning, I woke up at my usual time to my usual news station. The correspondent was reporting on Chanukah, the festival of lights. She noted that many who have the practice of displaying the menorah in the window may not be doing so this year out of fear due to the rising antisemitism.

Chanukah is different for me this year. For starters, my thoughts are with the hostages and their families, our brave soldiers, and their families. And of course, the thousands of people who had to leave their homes due to the rockets being fired by Hamas and Hezbollah. Waking up to that news report made me depressed and angry.

As I often do, I went back and recalled the stories of our survivors and their examples of resilience, defiance and lessons for life. I remembered the story of the Posner family who famously photographed their menorah in the window juxtaposed against the Nazi flag hanging from the building across the street. The photograph is captioned, “Death to Judah” so the flag says. Judah will live forever.” I was reminded that even in Theresienstadt, the camp’s inhabitants found a way to carve an ornate Chanukah menorah/hanukiah—with nine candle holders and a Star of David. A Hebrew inscription curves over the top: “Who is like you, O Lord, among the celestials?”

And then, I found an article on the laws of Chanukah by Rabbi David Silverberg of Yeshiva Har Etzion and learned something interesting. Uncharacteristically, the lighting of the Chanukah candles is accompanied by two blessings/brachot (three on the first night). Following the standard blessing for the commandment/mitzvah, one recites the blessing of She’asa Nissim, giving thanks to G-d for the miracles performed “in those days, at this time.” Yet, in Maimonides’ Mishneh Torah, we see that some of the manuscripts have a slightly different version, which reads “bayamim hahem *uvizman* hazeh,” which translates as “in those days “and” at this time.” With the addition of a single letter vav, which means “and,” these editions offer an entirely new meaning to this blessing. We thank G-d for the miracles performed for our ancestors in ancient times, as well as those performed in contemporary times.

So while it is difficult, and perhaps a little less joyous, I am celebrating Chanukah. I am celebrating the miracle of Israeli civil society, whose solidarity has been inspiring, and I am celebrating the heroism of the Israeli soldiers. I am celebrating the Jewish community here in the United States and around the world, whose grassroots efforts empower us, and the brave college students who will not give in to the hatred and double standard that exists on their campuses and are defending Israel and their Jewish identity. Our collective resolve in the face of these recent horrors is nothing short of miraculous, and a reminder of what we are capable of when we come together.

In the midst of the grief and the fear, there are miracles all around us, just as there were long ago. We are in very challenging times, but we must remain resolutely committed to our cause. As we move forward, our challenge is to not lose sight of these miracles, to be inspired by them, empowered to persevere until the darkness of this moment is overtaken by a stronger shining light. Our survivors did it. We must, too. Am Yisrael Chai.

Chanukah Sameach and Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this finds you well. I want to tell you about a thank you reception for members of ASYV’s Donor Circles that took place last week. Graciously hosted by Caroline Massel, chair of ASYV’s Education Committee and a member of our executive committee, and her husband, Morris, the event was significant for several reasons.

Firstly, the program was thoughtful and thought provoking. It featured Rabbi Justin Pines of the Shalom Hartman Institute North America whose grandfather was a Schindler Jew, in conversation with Abe Foxman, a child survivor, member of the ASYV Advisory Council, and Director Emeritus of the ADL. They discussed how the Holocaust has shaped our society, politics and culture today and how Holocaust education can help combat antisemitism.

Secondly, the more than 50 people in attendance spanned all ages and included new donors and veteran leaders. It was heartening to see that our mission resonates with such a wide audience and that so many people made the effort to come together around this topic in the middle of the summer. Everyone left having learned something new or considering a new perspective.

Lastly, it was a chance to recognize our donors for their consistent and generous support.   Yad Vashem/ ASYV’s work would simply not be possible without your interest and commitment to Holocaust education, research, documentation and commemoration. At a time of rising antisemitism, Holocaust trivialization and distortion, we must recommit to ensuring the relevance and resonance of this unprecedented period in our history and the lessons it teaches us. You make that happen. Thank you.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this update finds you and your families well.

I just finished reading I Escaped from Auschwitz by Rudolf Vrba, the story of the successful escape of two Slovak prisoners from one of the most heavily guarded and notorious concentration camps of Nazi Germany. Rudolf Vrba and Alfred Wetzler fled over 100 miles to be the first to give the graphic and detailed descriptions of the atrocities of Auschwitz. Their goal was to warn the world of the mass slaughter underway in a death camp whose existence was barely known. Incredibly, they were successful and played a role in saving over 200,000 Jews.

When I finished the book, I thought about Dr. Victor Frankl, the Austrian neurologist, psychiatrist, and philosopher. In 1942 Frankl and his family were sent to Theresienstadt and later to Auschwitz. Dr. Frankl founded a school of thought called logotherapy, proposing that a search for meaning is the ultimate purpose in a person’s life. Through meaning we have direction, purpose, and a driving force with which to push through hardship, adversity and the struggles of day-to-day life.

We as a people have had to deal with serious hardships and challenges. Just yesterday, on our calendar, we observed Tisha B’Av, the 9th of Av, on which date both Holy Temples in Jerusalem were destroyed in addition to other sad events. It is truly remarkable that we live in a time when there is a sovereign State of Israel, and while Theodor Herzl believed that a national homeland would solve the Jewish problem, it clearly has not. Antisemitism sadly, is ever present today.

In addition to observing Tisha B’Av this week has been a deeply challenging one for the State of Israel. On this Shabbat Nachamu, a Shabbat of comfort, we can hopefully begin the process of healing. We have much left to do to garner the energy of our people to create one united whole. As Dr. Frankl wrote, “forces beyond your control can take away everything you possess except one thing, your freedom to choose how you will respond to the situation.”

Thank you for all that you do to support ASYV in helping Yad Vashem’s mission of remembrance, commemoration, and education.

Of particular note, on Tuesday, August 1st, the ASYV New York Tri-State Region will be hosting Abe Foxman, Holocaust Survivor, member of the ASYV Advisory Council and Former Director of the ADL in conversation with Rabbi Justin Pines, Director of Lay Leadership for the Shalom Hartman Institute of North America, on the State of Antisemitism. For information about this Leadership Circle program, please see the link below on upcoming events.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you and your family well.

This week, we read the double portion of Matot-Masei, with the second portion, “Masei” meaning “Journeys.” The forty-two journeys and encampments of Israel are listed, from the Exodus to their encampment on the plains of Moab across the river from the land of Canaan.

With journeys being the theme of this week’s parsha, I want to tell you about ASYV’s journey to the Southeast this past week. Denise Herschberg, our Southeast Region Director, and Amy Cooper, National Campaign Director, journeyed to Atlanta, one of the fastest growing Jewish communities in the country, to meet with Jewish leaders and donors and to gain a better understanding of what ASYV and Yad Vashem could offer the Jewish community there. They were warmly welcomed there and learned that there is tremendous receptivity and interest in the unique resources we could provide. They also met with Israeli Consul General, Anat Sultan-Dadon, and discussed how we might work together to enhance Holocaust education in the region.

The next journey was to Memphis, where Amy, Suzy Schwartz and I all met up with Andy Groveman, who we will have the privilege of honoring at our Annual Gala on November 2 in New York City (see the invitation below for details and to participate). Both visits allowed us to reflect on the uniqueness of Yad Vashem and the value we can bring to communities interested in providing high quality Holocaust education to their constituencies.

None of this would be possible without your continued interest and commitment to our work. Thank you for all you do.

Wishing you a Shabbat Shalom.

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you and your family well.

The opening section of this week’s Torah portion, Chukat, presents the command to slaughter and burn a red heifer, para aduma. The concept of the red heifer is one of those rare commandments where we are not sure of the reasoning behind it. Many theories have been formulated. One caught my attention.

Rav Kalonymus Kalman Shapira, the Grand Rabbi of Piaseczno, Poland, who was murdered by the Nazis during the Holocaust, connects the red heifer and Miriam’s death, which took place in last week’s parsha, in his book of teachings, Holy Fire/ Eish Kodesh. It is based on a theory by Rashi (19:22) who cites Rabbi Moshe Ha-darshan, the renowned rabbi often quoted by Rashi in his commentaries. Rabbi Ha-darshan notes that the law of the red heifer serves to atone for the sin of the golden calf.

On this basis, Rabbi Shapira revisits the Talmud’s teaching that the Jewish people received water in the wilderness in Miriam’s merit. Miriam felt genuine love and compassion for all Jews, even when they misbehaved and caused trouble. Miriam was unreservedly committed to helping everyone. It was in the merit of this unbridled concern that each Jew received water. Just as Miriam loved the Israelites unconditionally, so too are we to love and feel compassion for each and every one of our fellow Jews, despite their faults and failings.

Rabbi Shapira delivered this message to Jews in the Warsaw Ghetto during the Holocaust emphasizing the importance of sharing the pain of every fellow Jew in distress. What incredible faith and resilience Rabbi Shapira had to encourage everyone to keep their humanity and decency despite unimaginable surroundings.

Yad Vashem’s unique educational philosophy is to talk about the horrors of the Holocaust, but also to convey to the world that, despite such unthinkable and inconceivable events unfolding around them, the victims never lost their humanity and continued to help others.

In these days, with so much distortion and hate, we need to be reminded of such lessons. Thanks to your support, you enable Yad Vashem to share those lessons—and be a voice world-wide.

With Independence Day upon us and the summer season in full swing, our weekly message will be coming out every other week through Labor Day. Happy July 4!

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you well. Unfortunately, this past week saw terror strike again in Israel, with four people killed. Our hearts go out to the victims’ families for the steep price they paid for us to have a homeland. May their memory be a blessing.

Yad Vashem’s vision is to lead the documentation, research, education and commemoration of the Holocaust, and to convey the chronicles of this singular Jewish and human event to every person in Israel, to the Jewish people, and to every significant and relevant audience worldwide.

By preserving its Jewish character within the universal context, and yet maintaining the authentic individual voice emanating from testimonies, diaries, artifacts and other documentation, Yad Vashem continues to pave the way for a brighter future. Underlying everything is remembering the names and voices of every victim and survivor.

Last month Haim Roet, a child Holocaust survivor, passed away at age 90 (see his obituary from the New York Times below). Mr. Roet initiated the commemorative project, “Unto Every Person There Is a Name,” a public recitation of the names of Holocaust victims, in response to a protest demonstration by Jews of Dutch origin in Israel against the release of two Nazi criminals from prison in 1989. Since then, victims’ names have been recited on Holocaust Heroes’ and Martyrs’ Remembrance Day in Israel and overseas. He also played a major role in the recognition of Jewish efforts to save other Jews, serving as the Chairman of the Committee for the Recognition of Jews who Rescued Jews during the Holocaust. Mr. Roet is survived by his wife, three children and eight grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and a brother, ensuring his voice will not be lost. May his memory be a blessing.

Another way Yad Vashem directly paves the way for a brighter future is through education.

Earlier this month, under the auspices of the International School for Holocaust Studies (ISHS) at Yad Vashem, twenty-two university/college faculty members from across the US came together at Yad Vashem in Jerusalem, for the inaugural Alan Cornell US Campus Faculty Seminar. With the increase in Holocaust distortion, rise in antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment, particularly on our campuses, the Cornell family wanted to do something proactively that could make a difference. Alan z”l, and his wife, Jane, are both children of survivors. Thanks to their visionary leadership and generosity, Jane and her family encouraged ISHS to develop this special seminar geared to faculty teaching in US universities and colleges.

Reactions from the participants speak to its success:

• “The seminar gave me many new ways of thinking about teaching about antisemitism and the Holocaust, especially using the workshop materials that were presented to us. I plan to incorporate these teaching materials into my classes.”
• “I learned so much about the city of Jerusalem; the intense issues that exist in this country; how and why antisemitism existed in many forms for over 2000 years and how we are all one!!!”

Yad Vashem’s ISHS, the only school of its kind in the world, offers extensive activities for students and educators in the field of Holocaust education and develops innovative methods, creative materials, and multimedia tools tailor-made for educators worldwide. A fascinating aspect of the first seminar class was that most of the participants do not currently teach this subject but represent a cross section of different teaching fields. Multiply that by the number of students these educators will impact, and we can change viewpoints.

Our thanks to the Cornell family. They, along with all our generous supporters, allow Yad Vashem to do innovative work that makes a difference.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you and your loved ones well. This coming week outside of Israel we will read the Torah portion Shelach. A highlight of this portion relates the unfortunate story of the twelve spies who were sent to assess the promised land and returned with a negative report. Moses instructs them to travel throughout the Land of Israel and report about the land’s quality and its inhabitants. One of the questions Moses asked was whether the land had trees–Ha-yeish bah eitz im ayin (13:20). The Gemara (Bava Batra 15a) explains that Moses speaks of trees allegorically; that he was, in fact, asking the spies whether there were righteous people in the land to protect the inhabitants through their merits, like a tree that provides shade from the sun.

Rabbi David Silverberg of Yeshiva Har Etzion asks why would the “protective” powers of the righteous be compared specifically to the shade produced by a tree? Rashi, citing the Midrash (Kohelet Rabba 1:3), explains that King David compares human mortality to the momentary shade provided by a bird which briefly conceals the sun while flying, as opposed to the shade provided by a tree or wall, which is permanent. Accordingly, the Gemara may be comparing righteous individuals to trees in order to emphasize their consistency.

One of Yad Vashem’s principal duties is to convey the gratitude of the State of Israel and the Jewish people to the Righteous Among the Nations who took great risks to save Jews during the Holocaust. This mission was defined by the law establishing Yad Vashem, and in 1963 the Remembrance Authority embarked upon a worldwide project to grant the title of Righteous Among the Nations to the few who helped Jews in the darkest time in their history. To this end, Yad Vashem set up a public Commission, headed by a Supreme Court Justice, which examines each case and is responsible for granting the title. Those recognized receive a medal and a certificate of honor and their names are commemorated on the Mount of Remembrance in Jerusalem. That it chose a garden on its campus to honor these heroes aligns beautifully with Rashi’s comparison of trees to righteousness.

Yad Vashem’s Righteous Among the Nations project is a unique and unprecedented attempt by victims to pay tribute to people who stood by their side at a time of persecution and great tragedy. It brings to mind another recent and important initiative spearheaded by Abraham Foxman, the National Director Emeritus of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL),a child survivor and longtime board member of ASYV and entrepreneur, Art Reidel, another child survivor, who co-chaired the Forgotten Heroes of the Holocaust Congressional Gold Medal Committee. They wanted to recognize those diplomats who used every tool they had at their disposal to help Jews fleeing persecution. The bipartisan legislation S.91- Forgotten Heroes of the Holocaust Congressional Gold Medal Act awarded a Congressional Gold Medal to 60 diplomats in recognition of their heroism and bravery during the Holocaust.

At the ceremony, Abe captured the significance of the legislative effort:

I decided a long time ago not to be a witness to the evil, to the brutality that men are capable of. I decided to bear witness to goodness, to decency, to compassion, to humanity, to my nanny Bronislawa Kurpi, and to all others who have made a colossal difference in that they saved lives- Jewish lives. And that’s why I am here today and that’s what hopefully you’re here to celebrate, to honor, to embrace, to thank those diplomats who risked their careers, their reputations, their pensions, and maybe their freedoms to save Jews, thousands of Jews.

 Kol hakavod, Abe, and thank you for your leadership, your devotion and commitment to stand up to hatred, to stand up to evil and to create a better and brighter world for us.

Please take special note of our Lessons from Our Parents Live featuring a conversation with Dr. Julio Frenk, President of the University of Miami and his wife, Dr. Felicia Knaul.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this message finds you well.

As you have read these past weeks, ASYV had a very busy spring calendar with A Concert for Sugihara in New York and LA, a live taping of Lessons from Our Parents in Florida, several Diversity and Inclusion events at major companies, and more. Now, we are gearing up for the rest of the year to offer exclusive Yad Vashem programming and bring communities together around a common cause.

This is a good opportunity to thank you for your continued interest and support. Yad Vashem can only fulfill its mission of Holocaust research, documentation, education and commemoration with your partnership. Thank you for your generosity and your confidence in us.

Please be on the lookout for our upcoming programs—including our annual Gala taking place on Thursday, November 2 in New York City when we will have the chance to honor executive board member, Andy Groveman for his commitment to Yad Vashem and recognize YLA immediate past chairs, Josh Gelnick and Rachel Shnay for their leadership.

Wishing you a Shabbat shalom,

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you and your loved ones well.

Unfortunately, this past week, Israelis once again had to endure a terrorist attack that claimed the life of a young father, Meir Tamari. Our thoughts are with his family. May his memory be a blessing.

Memorial Day marks the beginning of the lazy days of summer when we look forward to slowing down and enjoying the great weather with friends and family. It got me thinking about what it was like this same week during the Shoah. Two events come to mind.

• On May 29, 1942, German authorities required all Jews residing in France to wear the yellow Star of David on their outer clothing, effective June 7.
• From June 1-6, 1943, German authorities began deporting Jews from the Krakow ghetto. By June 8, 6,000 Jews from the ghetto were sent to the Belzec killing center.

I note these events because one, they make us realize how fortunate we are today, but two, it is essential that we never forget the details of what happened to the Jewish people during those years. At a time when facts are so easily distorted, we must ensure the historic accuracy of our story. That is Yad Vashem’s core mission—to educate, research, document and commemorate the Shoah to safeguard the truth. Thanks to your support, you make that possible.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you are your family well. With the upcoming holiday on Friday, I am writing a day earlier.

We were delighted with the performance of A Concert for Sugihara that took place last Thursday night in Los Angeles. Co-sponsored by ASYV and UCLA, students, as well as donors, were inspired by the music and the opportunity to meet Kristina Cooper, the catalyst for this special tribute.

As this week ends, we will celebrate the holiday of Shavuot. It commemorates the date G‑d gave the Torah to the Jewish people at Mount Sinai over 3,300 years ago. Today, Shavuot is celebrated by some staying up all night to study Torah, listening to the reading of the Ten Commandments in synagogue, enjoying dairy foods and partaking in other festivities.

When the Temple in Jerusalem stood, people would begin to bring their first and choicest fruits/bikkurim to thank G‑d for Israel’s bounty. Two wheat loaves would be offered on Shavuot.

I am continuously inspired when I learn of stories of individuals who, despite great risk, maintained their dignity by marking the holidays during the Shoah. One such example is that of Elizabeth Spitz’s father, a member of the Jewish Council in the Satu Mare Ghetto in Hungary. Established in the beginning of May 1944, the ghetto was almost completely liquidated by the end of May. Before everyone was deported, though, her father undertook a “secret” operation to provide challah for Shavuot to all the remining Jews. She remembers her father disappearing the night before Shavuot to organize 50 to 60 other men to bake challahs for the holiday. The next morning, he and his team of bakers delivered two challahs to every family that was still in the ghetto.

It is countless stories like this one, that Yad Vashem, through its Archives and Gathering of the Fragments programs, ensures are never forgotten. Thanks to your continued support, you help guarantee that these programs continue.

Chag Sameach and Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly e-mail finds you and your family well. Yom Yerushalayim, which falls on 28 Iyar, this year on May 19, celebrates the reunification of the city of Jerusalem during the Six Day War in 1967.  Soon after, Elie Wiesel wrote:

Future generations will probably never believe it. Teachers will have a hard time convincing their students that what sounds legendary actually occurred. The children will, naturally, swallow each word, but later on, as adults, they’ll nod their heads and smile, remarking that these were fantasies of history. They won’t believe that this small state, surrounded by hatred, fire and murder, had so quickly managed a miracle. It will be hard to describe how, amid a sea of hatred, a tiny army drove off and humiliated several well-equipped military hordes of who knows how many Arab countries. How does acclaimed scholar and talmudic genius Shaul Lieberman put it? In another 2,000 years, people will consider these events the way we think of descriptions of the Maccabees and their victories. . .

Quietly, we asked if the test was too hard this time. Was too much being demanded from the Jewish people and from their land? How could we expect to be redeemed, knowing that the enemy numbered tens of millions, even hundreds of millions of people, against a mere 2 million Jews in Israel?

And then, between Passover and Shavuot, the Hanukkah miracle occurred. It didn’t take long before the supposedly mighty enemy was rendered speechless and lost its nerve.

It may well be that future generations won’t comprehend how Israel vanquished her enemies. Yes, there are sacrifices, but in the long run nothing gets lost. And yet the blood that was shed by our young lions, the sacrifices endured, everything will be inscribed. Each widow’s tear, every death rattle of the fallen soldiers – they won’t pass unnoticed by our descendants.

This new Jewish awakening is part of that miracle, a part of the Jewish victory. Those who thought Jews were frightened by huge armies were mistaken, and those who thought you could separate the Jewish state from the Jewish people around the world clearly underestimated us.

A number of years ago, I had the privilege to be in Israel on Yom Yerushalayim. Standing on the streets of the city, I watched youngsters from around the world waving Israeli flags, singing and dancing with a joy that was overwhelming. As I watched the celebrations, I was overcome with emotion because suddenly I had a vision of the 1.5 million children who were murdered in the Shoah not because of anything they had done, not because of anything their parents had done, but because their grandparents happened to be Jews. We have had the privilege to be born in a generation that has seen Jerusalem reunited and rebuilt. We have seen the Jewish people come home.

It is no accident that the Mountain of Remembrance, where Yad Vashem is located is next to Mt Herzl Military Cemetery. We have a sacred duty to remember what we lost and the sacrifices that the men and women of the State of Israel make to ensure our sovereignty.

Thank you for joining with Yad Vashem and ASYV in this holy task.  Chag Sameach.

Shabbat Shalom and Am Yirsrael Chai!

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you and your families well. As I write this edition, our thoughts and prayers are with our family in Israel as we hope that Operation Shield and Arrow concludes quickly, bringing peace.

In this coming week’s Torah portions of Behar-Bechukotai, the portion of Bechukotai contains “the Chastisement”/Tokchacha, the seven curses that would befall the Israelites. It also tells us that despite the exile, G-d will remember the merits of our forefathers.

It reminded me that an additional Tokheha appears in the portion of Kitavo and of a story Rabbi Shlomo Riskin, Chief Rabbi of Efrat and founder of Yeshiva Ohr Torah, relates in his book Listening to G-d. As a 12 year old, he visited the Brooklyn synagogue established by the Rebbe of Sanz-Klausenberg. A Holocaust survivor himself, the Rebbe’s wife and thirteen children had been murdered in the Shoah. It was said that he had not sat shiva for any of them believing that those still alive must be saved with exit visas before one could be allowed the luxury of mourning for the dead. The Rebbe himself was among the last to leave Europe, insisting that the captain does not leave the sinking ship before its passengers.

As the Torah reader began to chant the weekly portion that particular Shabbat, he came to the Tokheha and began to read in the time-honored custom of a rapid whisper. A sound suddenly came from the Rebbe; he said only one word: “louder”/”heche.” The Torah reader immediately stopped reading and seemed to hesitate for a few moments. He then continued reading in a whisper. The Rebbe turned around to face the congregation, banged on the lectern, his eyes blazing, “I said louder”, he shouted out. “Let the Master of the Universe hear! We have nothing to be afraid of. We have already received all of the curses- and more. Let the Almighty hear and let him understand that the time has come to send blessings!”. The Torah reader continued chanting loudly, in a much slower cadence.

At the conclusion of services, the Rebbe once again turned to his congregation and cried out, conveying a deep love, “Mein tayere shvestern un birider/my beloved sisters and brothers, the blessing will come. . . G-d promised the blessing after the curses, but they will come from the land of Israel. Let us pack our bags for the last time. Our community is setting out for Israel.” And indeed, it wasn’t very long after that Shabbat, that the Rebbe led his flock to settle in Netanya, where they founded Kiryat Sanz.

An essential mission of Yad Vashem is to remember not just what occurred during the Shoah itself, but also the resiliency and valuable contributions survivors have made to grow and sustain Jewish life throughout the world. Your support ensures that the story of the Shoah before, during and after continues to be told. Thank you for helping make that happen.

Yet another example of our resilience is the May 18 A Concert for Sugihara at UCLA’s Royce Hall. It honors a man who saved thousands of Jewish lives and is responsible for tens of thousands of descendants today. Not coincidentally, it coincides with Jerusalem Day/ Yom Yerushalayim.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this email finds you and your family well. Perry Dane, a law professor at Rutgers University, shares a powerful insight from this week’s Torah portion/Parshat Emor about hope and redemption in the face of collective tragedy.

The parsha begins:

 “And Hashem said to Moses: Speak to the priests/kohanim, the sons of 

Aaron, and say to them: Let none [of you] defile himself for a dead 

person among his people except for his relative who is close to 

him. . .” 

Parshat Emor emphasizes that the kohanim, the religious functionaries of pre-Rabbinic times, were excluded from involvement with the rituals of death. Think for a moment–in pre-Rabbinic times, when the Kohanim were the principal religious functionaries, they were excluded from playing an official role in funerals or in the burial of the dead, one of the basic functions of a rabbi today. The principle that kohanim would defile themselves by coming into contact with the dead reflects that separation between the work of holiness and the abyss of the grave. It prescribes a clear dividing line between life and death. There is one significant exception, however—the rituals of collective Jewish tragedy.

Professor Dane explains that the tragedies that have befallen the Jewish people throughout its history, have all “powerfully and poignantly shaped Jewish religious life, ceremony and liturgy…. and what is remarkable about the Jewish rituals of collective tragedy is that they are never left to marinate in their own bitterness. The tradition consistently juxtaposes them against expressions of hope or even redemption.”

That is why Tisha B’Av is not only a day of lament. It also ushers in the seven weeks of comfort leading to Rosh Hashanah. The Omer counts us up to Shavuot, the celebration of the giving of the Torah. Yizkor is a moment of sadness snuck into the middle of days of holiday joy. And the leaders of the State of Israel tapped into this same pattern in an act of symbolic genius, locating Yom Hazikaron (Israel’s Memorial Day) on the very eve before Yom Ha’atzmaut (Israel’s Independence Day).

These juxtapositions are profound. Our expressions of hope do not negate our tragedies nor should we think that tragedy, horror and suffering are somehow redemptive. But Jewish tradition does demand that we attach them, however hard and paradoxical it is, into a larger story of redemption.

Elie Wiesel, in his Nobel Lecture titled “Hope, Despair, and Memory.” asked if Job lost his faith. He answered:

I remember the killers and I despair. I remember the victims 
and, on their behalf and for their sake and for their children’s 
sake, I must invent a thousand and one reasons to hope. In  
our Jewish cult of the dead, we do not deify the dead. We do  
not seek wisdom by conjuring up the ghosts of the dead.  
But we do seek wisdom in the memory of the dead.  

Elie Wiesel’s words beautifully articulate the mission of Yad Vashem to remember the past in order to secure a safer future. As always, thank you for your interest and your partnership. We could not do our work without you.

If you are in Los Angeles on May 18, I urge you to join us for Righteousness and Bravery: A Concert for Sugihara, a symphony of redemption and hope in the face of tragedy.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you and your family well.

This week we celebrated Israel Independence Day/Yom Haatzmaut. I found a very thought-provoking page on the Yad Vashem website on the impact survivors had in the creation of the State.

Abba Kovner, Holocaust survivor, poet, partisan, and one of the leaders of the Vilna ghetto underground, wrote of his fellow survivors rebuilding their lives:

“I would not have been surprised had those same survivors become bands of thieves, robbers and murderers; had they done so, they might well have been the most humane and just of their kind.”

Kovner’s comments reflect his wonderment at the survivors’ rehabilitative and creative energies. The fact that they were able to build and create after all the suffering and trauma that was their lot during the Holocaust is not to be taken for granted.

Following WWII, most Holocaust survivors chose to concentrate on building their lives, with many of them doing so in the land of Israel/Eretz Israel. The successful integration of those survivors into their new society is unparalleled in the history of human migrations. Rarely has a group of new immigrants become such active partners in shaping the face and character of their new home. From the start, the survivors took on two simultaneous missions: shaping and preserving the memory of the Shoah and constructive social action.

Starting in the 1950s, Holocaust survivors began to outline the fundamentals of Shoah remembrance. They became the first researchers in the field, the founders of its museums and commemorative institutions, and the authors of communal memorial books. Having personally lived through the Holocaust, they perceived its significance and knew it must be documented through firsthand testimony. They led legislative measures leading to the Knesset’s adoption of the 1953 Martyrs’ and Heroes’ (Yad Vashem) Law, followed in 1959 by the Martyrs’ and Heroes’ Remembrance Day Law.

At the same time, the survivors contributed substantially by joining in Israel’s formative society. Many arrived and quickly became part of the combat forces fighting for Israel’s independence and joining the ranks of the Israel Defense Forces. In fact, Holocaust survivors constituted approximately half of Israel’s combat soldiers during its War of Independence.

Holocaust survivors became an inseparable part of Israeli society, with their legacy evident in numerous fields: land reclamation and settlement, industry, science, economics, law, academia and culture. From their ranks emerged painters and graphic designers, poets and authors, athletes and stage performers, scientists and intellectuals, restoring themselves by committing to living lives of productive labor and creative endeavor.

Holocaust survivor Leyb Rochman sums up the role of the State of Israel in the survivors’ experience:

“I can attest to my own restoration. . . I thought I would never again see my mother, sister or brother. Now, I see them once more – in the faces of my children and granddaughter, in my home in Jerusalem, where they have been as if reborn, before my very eyes. It’s no wonder that everything that’s happened here is so dear to us. . . Perhaps only those who feel the great pain of the past can fathom what we have accomplished here, what we have been privileged to attain.”

We have the responsibility–the obligation to continue to tell this remarkable story of tragedy and rebuilding. Thank you for your continued partnership. It enables us to continue carrying forward this remarkable legacy. Am Yisrael Chai!

I want to especially note the West Coast Premiere of A Concert for Sugihara on May 18 at Royce Hall in partnership with UCLA.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope you all had a wonderful Passover. I am glad to write again after a brief hiatus.

“What happened exceeded our boldest dreams. The Germans fled twice from the ghetto. . . Only a handful will survive. All the rest will succumb, sooner or later. Their fate has been sealed. . . Goodbye my friend. Perhaps we will see each other again. The main thing is this: My life’s dream has become a reality. I have seen the Jewish defense of the ghetto in all its strength and glory”.

23 [21] April 1943 Mordechai Anielewicz, Warsaw Ghetto

This is an important week on the Jewish calendar. Holocaust and Heroism Remembrance Day/ Yom HaZikaron laShoah ve-laG’vurah or Holocaust Remembrance Day/Yom HaShoah, inaugurated in 1953, began on Monday evening, continuing into Tuesday, April 18^th/27 of Nisan. Yom HaShoah commemorates the approximately six million Jews and five million others who perished during the Holocaust because of the actions carried out by Nazi Germany and its perpetrators, and the Jewish resistance during that time. Yesterday, Thursday, April 20^th we observed the 80th anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising.

Right in the middle, on Wednesday, April 19^th, ASYV and Yad Vashem presented the sold-out Concert for Sugihara at Carnegie Hall—a tribute to Chiune Sugihara, the Japanese Vice Consul in Lithuania, who saved thousands of Jewish refugees in 1940. Sugihara issued visas that proved lifesaving for thousands of Jewish refugees and for doing so, against the orders of his government, was designated a Righteous Among the Nations by Yad Vashem in 1984.

Among the many highlights of the evening was having Nobuki Sugihara, son of Chiune Sugihara as our special guest. The Talmud tells us that if we save one life, it is as if we have saved the world. I was overcome with emotion as descendants of “Sugihara Survivors” lined up to thank Nobuki for what his father did and to tell him of the tens of grandchildren and scores of great grandchildren alive today because of his actions. Chiune Sugihara saved many worlds.

ASYV was proud to present this innovative and creative program to recognize Yom Hashoah and convey to the broader community the importance of Holocaust education and remembrance.

Thank you for your continued interest and support.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

As I write this weekly message, our Young Leadership Associates (YLA) just held an amazing Gala. Over 300 young men and women came together to express their support for ASYV and Yad Vashem. They raised over $80,000, more than twice the past record.

As the Gala unfolded, I was struck by a beautiful insight that I came across in Rabbi Shalom Rosner’s Haggada as I was preparing for Passover. He explains that when breaking the middle matza/ Yahatz, we take the larger piece to hide and use for the Tzafun, the afikomen. Traditionally, we do this to keep the children interested in the Seder; they find it and bargain to secure a gift. In Rabbi Rosner’s Haggada, he notes an additional explanation from the Shemen HaTov, a compendium of Torah thoughts/ divrei torah related to the Hassidic giants Rabbi Shmuel Shmelke of Nikolsburg and his brother, Rabbi Pinchas Halevi Horowitz (1730-1805). The word Tzafun means “hidden”. We hide the larger piece of the matza and take it out after we conclude our meal and begin the second half of the Seder. While the first half of the seder focuses on the story of our slavery in Egypt, the second half takes on a different facet—our future redemption. It is at the end of the second half that we sing “Next Year in Jerusalem”.

Perhaps the message to children is that the future is in their hands. To ensure a future we must remember the past–that is a critical lesson of the Seder. We relive the slavery of our ancestors in Egypt but we look towards the future as we conclude the Seder. Similarly, an essential message of Yad Vashem is to remember life before the Shoah. We cannot grasp the magnitude of the Holocaust without knowing what we lost, nor appreciate how fortunate we are today. The afikomen, the larger piece of matza, reminds us that we help determine our nation’s future. It was inspiring to see young people taking up the mantle of leadership at YLA Gala, taking responsibility for our peoples’ destiny.

On behalf of the Officers, Board, and staff at ASYV, we wish you and your families a happy, joyous Passover/ Chag Kasher V’Sameach.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly message finds you and your family well.

Excitement is building as we are one month away from A Concert for Sugihara on Wednesday, April 19 at Carnegie Hall. On behalf of the Event Co-Chairs, Abbi Halpern, Mark Mlotek and Peter Till, it’s my pleasure to invite you to this special concert.

I share with you excerpts from a JTA story that just broke this week about the inspiration behind this event: “For most of his life, Chiune Sugihara received little recognition for the dramatic actions he undertook as Japanese vice-consul to Lithuania on the eve of World War II: the rescue of some 6,000 Jews from Poland and elsewhere from the Nazi death machine.

For decades, the Jewish world remained largely ignorant of his heroism. In 1985, when Yad Vashem honored the unassuming retired diplomat as a Righteous Among the Nations, Sugihara was too old and sick to travel to Jerusalem to accept the award. He died shortly after. But his renown has grown in the years since his death, and now Sugihara is being celebrated in a new way with an extraordinary piece of music composed to commemorate his heroic actions.

Kristina Reiko Cooper, renowned Japanese-American-Israeli cellist, will perform this original piece of music — Lera Auerbach’s Symphony No. 6, Vessels of Light — accompanied by the New York City Opera Orchestra and Chorus, conducted by Constantine Orbelian. The gala concert, organized by Yad Vashem and the American Society for Yad Vashem, which commissioned the piece, will pay tribute to Sugihara’s legacy.

The inspiration for this project was Kristina’s husband’s father, Irving Rosen, who was one of the Jews whose lives was saved by Sugihara’s actions. Armed with papers enabling Rosen’s family to leave Lithuania and emigrate to Curaçao via Japan, the entire family traveled via the Trans-Siberian Railway from Vilnius to Moscow to Vladivostok, then by sea to Japan — and eventually to Shanghai.

Kristina became obsessed with this story—one that brings together her Japanese and Jewish heritages, and wanted people to know about it, especially given everything that’s going on in the world with the rise of authoritarian governments, mass dislocations, refugees, wars, rising antisemitism and anti-Asian hate”.

The evening’s master of ceremonies will be Zalmen Mlotek, who is artistic director of the National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene, himself a second generation descendent of a Sugihara survivor. A special guest will be Nobuki Sugihara, Chiune Sugihara’s son. A brief, but important element of the evening will be a candle lighting ceremony to commemorate Holocaust Remembrance Day/Yom Hashoah, which takes place on April 18. It is sure to be a moving and meaningful program. Tickets and sponsorships are available here. You will not want to miss an inspiring evening and the opportunity to pay tribute to a man that made a difference. To whet your appetite, you can see a short performance by Kristina at a recent event at the Japan Society.

Thank you for your continued interest and support. If you have questions, need information or would like to become a sponsor of A Concert for Sugihara, please contact Amy Cooper at acooper@yadvahsemusa.org or 646.970.4959.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this week’s update finds you and your family well.

This week’s Torah portion, Vayakhel, which we read along with Pekudei, tells of the Jewish people’s enthusiastic response to the call for donations of materials for the construction of the Tabernacle/Mishkan.

This week, ASYV is experiencing that same enthusiasm around three different programs. On Tuesday, ASYV partnered with the Japan Society to present a program featuring renowned cellist, Kristina Reiko Cooper, the visionary behind the upcoming Concert for Sugihara on April 19 at Carnegie Hall. The program allowed ASYV to share its mission with a new audience and for us to learn how much we have in common with Japan and its culture. The warmth and interest shown was quite incredible. Kristina dazzled the audience with a beautiful musical presentation and whet the appetite of everyone present for April 19. (be sure to use discount code SUG39816 when you get your tickets at https://www.carnegiehall.org/calendar/2023/04/19/a-concert-for-sugihara-0700pm).

Last night, our Southeast Region held the first live taping of Lessons from our Parents featuring Dr. Julio Frank, President of the University of Miami and Dr. Felica Knaul, Director, Institute for Advanced Study of the Americas, University of Miami in conversation with journalist and podcaster, Haley Draznin Leibowitz. The husband and wife team are both the children of Holocaust survivors. The program will be part of next season’s Lessons series and filming live added new energy to the discussion.

This coming Sunday, the 25^th Annual Arfa Education Conference will take place in New York City. To date, we have over 200 registrants, including virtual participants from Canada, China, India, Israel, Italy, New Zealand, Pakistan, Romania, Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.

It’s encouraging to see so many people from different walks of life interested in learning about the Holocaust. In these challenging times, we need to offer as many opportunities in as many different formats as we can for people to learn and reflect on the lessons of the Holocaust and its relevance today. Thanks to your continued enthusiastic support, ASYV and Yad Vashem offers a varied and robust menu of programs—and we are always thinking of new ones.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly message finds you and your family well.

In this week’s Torah portion, Ki Tissa, we read the famous episode of Moses breaking the tablets containing the Ten Commandments after witnessing the Golden Calf. Upon seeing the people dancing about their idol, he breaks the tablets, destroys the golden calf, and has the primary offenders put to death. The Israelites end up receiving a second set of tablets, but the episode is never forgotten. The broken tablets get placed in the holy Ark along with a second, intact set.

Rabbi Aaron Goldscheider, founding director of the In Our Hearts Project at Aish writes, “After a painful loss, life continues, but now differently than before. We move through life now with two sets of tablets. There are times of joy; there are very happy times. They are encased in the same box; in the same heart.” No one who has ever lost a loved one is unbroken. That brokenness itself becomes essential to who we become going forward.

The analogy Rabbi Goldscheider uses exemplifies our survivors. The broken and the whole, side by side, always. He relates a story of a gentleman, himself elderly, whose father was shot during a death march in the last days of the war, and who was never found to be buried. The man had come to what was then Palestine as a teenager, married, had a child, and spent his career serving in the Israeli Army. He lived a meaningful, thoughtful, and full life. But, he shared, “there . . . was never a day in my life that I didn’t see and think of my father’s bitter end.” There are so many survivors all around us, who have suffered such losses and who live their lives with two compartments – side by side, as symbolized by the two sets of tablets.

Forget–never. Rather, we must seek a healthy way to merge the broken with the whole, the painful with the hopeful. There can be no future without a past. This is core to Yad Vashem’s work. Everything it does—from education to research and documentation to commemoration is seen through this lens. Your support makes it possible. Thank you for your interest and understanding.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you and your family well. Sadly, it has been a difficult week in Israel. The murders of brothers Hillel and Yaniv Yagel and that of Elan Ganeles are tragic and heartbreaking. May their memories be for blessings and may the Yagel and Ganeles families know no further sorrow.

In the midst of this sadness, we will be celebrating Purim next Tuesday—a Jewish holiday where we are told to be happy.

Purim commemorates the rescue of the Jews from extermination in Persia in the fifth century BCE. The story is described in the Book of Esther/Megillah. The main character is a wise and beautiful queen, Esther, the wife of the Persian ruler, Achashverosh. At the behest of her uncle, Mordechai, Esther thwarts the murderous plans of Haman, the all-powerful royal minister who planned to murder all the Jews, by exposing his lies and showing the king that Haman was the real threat, not the Jews. Haman dies, and his figure – in Jewish tradition – is one of the symbols of evil and misfortune.

During the Holocaust, one important element of the German occupiers’ anti-Semitic policy was to plan particularly aggressive or humiliating actions during the Jewish holidays. This was calculated to tarnish centuries of tradition and humiliate those for whom it was important. Purim, with its joyful atmosphere and hopeful message, was the “perfect” choice for such activities.

One story illustrates how, inspired by the call to be happy on Purim, inmates spirits’ could be tested, but not be broken. Purim evening 1943 at the Ilia camp in Transylvania was a very difficult one. Conditions were unbearable and spirits were very low; there was no traditional Book of Esther/Megillah to read. Zvi Hershel Weiss, a prisoner at the camp, decided to write a text for the holiday to uplift the mood of his fellow Jews imprisoned alongside him. Known for his sense of humor and his love of joking around, Zvi Hershel hand wrote a text in Yiddish, combining the story in the Book of Esther with the story of the inmates. He read the manuscript accompanied by music, and that is how they celebrated Purim. In August 1944, the Weiss family was liberated and immigrated to Israel. Just recently, Shmuel Yitzhak Weiss, Zvi Hershel’s son, donated the manuscript to Yad Vashem as part of the Gathering the Fragments campaign to preserve the memory and what it signifies.

Unfortunately, there are still Hamans today who rear their ugly heads. Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik, z’l, notes that one should not be so naïve to think that hatred does not exist in the world, or that those who hate can be convinced to love. One cannot reason with evil, one must destroy it. You, through your continued support, help ensure Yad Vashem and ASYV can share the stories of the past and guarantee the lessons remain relevant.

Wishing you and your families and happy, safe Purim and Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you and your loved ones well.

This week, we mark the beginning of the Jewish month of Adar. It is interesting to note that the first commandment G-d gives the Jewish people as a whole is to acknowledge the New Month/Rosh Chodesh (Exodus 12:2-3). The Jewish nation was told while still in Egypt that the month of Nissan, the month in which they would be leaving Egypt, should be for their first month, and that from then on, they as a nation, have a responsibility to count the months and create a Jewish calendar based on the lunar year.

This seems like an odd first commandment for a new nation. One would think the development of the calendar would only come after the establishment of fundamentals like the Ten Commandments. Why does the Torah consider establishing a calendar a foundation for creating a nation? And, why a lunar calendar when everyone else is using a solar one?

The answer lies in the fact that a lunar calendar is placed squarely in human hands. For example, if the moon were to appear on a Monday, but no one actually saw it until Tuesday, a court would likely decide, “seeing is believing,” and rule that the first of the month was on a Tuesday. As a result, G-d, as it were, follows the decision of the court.

In fact, G-d is empowering the Jewish people with this first commandment. Up until now, the Jews have been slaves to the Egyptians.  Their time was not their own.  Now, says G-d, you are becoming masters of your time.  And not only of your own time, but of my time as well.  During the Shoah, removing control over our time was one more way the Nazis tried to dehumanize us.  Because owning our system of measuring time and creating our own calendar, is what enables us to take charge of shaping our own reality.”

While we are empowered to shape our futures, we must also be vested in remembering the past. That is ASYV’s raison d’etre—to remember and also to educate—to ensure the atrocities of the Holocaust never happen again. To that end, we have a busy month ahead of us with programs meant to teach and engage:

• Thursday, March 2, 7 PM: The Holocaust Revisited: What We Know, Don’t Know and Need to Know 70 Years Later with Dr. Stephen Berk, Union College, Temple Sinai, North Miami Beach, FL.
• Thursday, March 16, 7 PM Lessons from Our Parents featuring: Dr. Julio Frenk and Dr. Felicia Knaul in conversation with Haley Draznin Leibowitz, Skylake Synagogue, North Miami Beach, FL
• Sunday, March 19, 25^th Annual Barbara G. Arfa Conference on Holocaust Education: From Documentation to Social Media: Empowering Students to Analyze (Mis)Information with special guest, Michael Berenbaum, Ramaz School, New York City
• Thursday, March 30, 7 PM Young Leadership Associates Gala, Prince George Ballroom, New York City

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. We could not do it without you.

Shabbat shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this message finds you well. This week’s Torah portion, Mishpatim, contains one of the most famous phrases in the Torah, “we will do and we will hear/na’aseh venishma “(Ex. 24:7). A modern reading suggests that na’aseh venishma can be interpreted as, “We will do and we will understand,” suggesting that one can only understand Judaism by doing it, by performing the commandments and living a Jewish life. Only after doing comes the insight and the comprehension.

“To do and to understand” beautifully encapsulates the vision of renowned cellist, Kristina Reiko Cooper, when she conceived of the idea to create a musical piece to honor Chiune Sugihara, the Japanese Vice Consul to Lithuania during WWII who saved the lives of some 6000 Jews. The piece is a way to pay tribute to both her Japanese and Jewish heritages through the medium she knows best—music. She writes:

I first conceived the vision of a grand musical project commemorating the life of Chiune Sugihara when I learned of the incredible story of this righteous and humble Japanese man. It was a profound realization to know that were it not for his heroic actions of saving thousands through his transit visas against the orders of his government, my husband and three beautiful children would never have existed. My husband’s father, Irving Rosen, was the recipient of Sugihara’s visa #1628, which ensured his survival. Thus, from the ashes and horror of the Holocaust, he was able to build a new family and life. . .

It has been my dream, and now, incredibly, a reality, to bring this project to fruition through Lera Auerbach’s amazing and beautiful musical score and to celebrate the preciousness of life by shining light on an ultimately very simple act of Chiune Sugihara. May his actions continue to inspire us all.

I hope you will join us at A Concert for Sugihara on Wednesday, April 19, 7 PM at Carnegie Hall in New York City for the U.S. premiere of Lera Auerbach’s Symphony No. 6, “Vessel of Light,” performed by Kristina along with the New York City Opera Orchestra and Chorus with Constantine Orbelian conducting. Tickets are available at the Carnegie Hall website. We are proud to offer friends of ASYV a special discount code: SUG39816. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For more information on sponsorships or the concert, please contact Amy Cooper at acooper@yadvashemusa.org or 646.970.4959.

As always, thank you for your continued interest and support.

Shabbat shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this finds you well. This week’s Torah portion, Jethro/Yitro, is one of the shortest, yet most important, as we receive the Ten Commandments from G-d. Earlier in the portion, Moses’ father-in-law, Jethro/Yitro, for whom the portion is named, observes that Moses spends all day settling disputes between the people and asks Moses why he does so. Moses, replies, “Because the people come to me to seek G-d. I decide between man and his neighbor and make known the laws of G-d.” Understanding that was not sustainable, Jethro/Yitro suggests that Moses set up a justice system where Moses is G-d’s representative, but that others could serve to decide simpler disputes. Moses agrees and sets up such a structure.

However, when it comes time to receive the Ten Commandments, Moses is no longer the sole representative. All the Israelites are instructed to be present to hear G-d give the commandments and to be responsible for observing them–laws that guide the individual and society. We are all now empowered to act and be accountable.

It is often said that the Nazis could not have succeeded without the support of the citizenry—tacit or otherwise. As Elie Wiesel said, ‘Evil triumphs when good people do nothing.” With antisemitism, Holocaust distortion and trivialization on the rise, we must all be empowered to act—to stand up and stand out when we see it. My hope is that ASYV is a dynamic resource for you to learn about our past, understand what was lost and provide the means to strengthen your efforts to ensure nothing like the Shoah can ever happen again.

Thank you for your interest and support. It has never been more vital.

Shabbat shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this e-mail finds you and your family well.

Last week ended on a sad note as a Palestinian terrorist shattered the peacefulness of Shabbat when he shot and killed seven people and wounded at least three others near a synagogue in Jerusalem. How ironic that this outrage occurred as the world was commemorating International Holocaust Remembrance Day. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families.

As this week was ending, I suddenly realized that on Monday we will celebrate Jewish Arbor Day, Tu B’ Shevat. It gave me pause to think how this minor holiday was celebrated during the dark days of the Shoah.

Thanks to the Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center in Cincinnati, I learned the following story that took place in the Terezin Ghetto.

Overcrowding, hunger, disease, and despair dictated daily life; deportations were a constant reality. Yet, amid this, volunteer teachers devoted themselves to providing meaningful and even joyful moments for the children and families by continuing educational and cultural activities. Zionist youth movement leaders inspired and taught the vastly secular audience about pride in their own Jewish identity. As such, efforts to retain their humanity were continuously conceived – from arts to newspapers to opera.

Irma Lauscher was one of the volunteer teachers from the Terezin, sharing her love and appreciation for Jewish traditions and holidays. In January 1943, Irma decided to lift the spirits of the children by organizing a celebration of the ancestral holiday of Tu B’Shevat. She bribed one of the Czech guards to smuggle a tree sapling into the ghetto, carried inside his boot and nurtured to life by the children imprisoned there. She organized a ceremony of dancing and singing with the children of the ghetto, and together they planted the tree, sharing their water rations. The children nurtured their tree, wrote poetry about it, and were inspired by it. They called it the Tree of Life, Etz Hayim.

Of the 15,000 children who were imprisoned in Terezin, only 150 survived. After the war, Ela Weissberger was among the handful of children who returned and found the tree still alive. They carefully transplanted the tree next to the crematorium and dedicated a headstone with the prophetic words of Isaiah: As the days of a tree shall be the days of my people!

A poem was written and dedicated to this Tree of Life, Etz Hayim, which grew to be over 60 feet tall:

I returned home here to Theresienstadt.

I stand guard here on this rise of this hill

by this tree that moves slightly

as it creaks the names of the children

slowly to me.. every night.

We watch over this place. This tree and I.

We watch over the children of Theresienstadt.

We still hear their songs.

Shhh-hh-h.. do you hear?

 Thanks to your valued support, ASYV continues to cultivate the Tree of Life, Etz Hayim, by ensuring that the memory of Holocaust victims will not be forgotten, and that people of all ages continue to learn the stories and lessons of the Shoah.

May this Shabbat be a truly peaceful one for our people and a happy Tu B’Shevat,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you well.

In this week’s Torah portion, Bo (13:8), we read for the first time a phrase that is a cornerstone of Judaism and fulfilled daily with the recitation of the Shema–“And you shall tell your child …” This is a key principle of Judaism—the commandment to learn and to remember.

A core value of ASYV is to provide opportunities for meaningful Holocaust remembrance. Today is International Holocaust Remembrance Day. It was designated by  the United Nations General Assembly in 2005 following a special UN session marking the 60th anniversary of the liberation of the Nazi concentration camps and the end of the Holocaust.

During the Holocaust, the Nazis endeavored to obliterate the identity of every Jewish man, woman, and child. Since the 1950s, Yad Vashem has worked tirelessly to gather and restore the names of the six million Jews murdered during that time. To date, they have identified some 4.8M names and memorialized them in The Book of Names of Holocaust Victims. Each victim’s name, date of birth, hometown and place of death is listed on meter-high pages and illuminated by a gentle strip of light that lies between each page. The monumental size of the book attests to the collective, immeasurable loss to the entire Jewish people, and to humanity. The blank pages of the book’s final volume symbolize the names still to be identified, recorded, and memorialized, in perpetuity, by Yad Vashem.

Thanks to the generosity of Marilyn & Barry Rubenstein and family, Yad Vashem will dedicate The Book of Names at the United Nations Headquarters for International Holocaust Remembrance Day. It will be on display for the public through February 17, before being brought back to Yad Vashem in Israel where it will be on permanent display beginning April 2023.

In line with our mission, ASYV has been working with several corporations as part of their Diversity & Inclusion programs to bring Holocaust remembrance and education to a broader audience. This week—and in the weeks to come, Ernst & Young, Ralph Lauren, Spotify, Palantir and Tapestry have welcomed us. If you are interested in having ASYV plan a program at your company, please contact Amy Cooper, our National Campaign Director, to facilitate this. She can be reached at acooper@yadvashemusa.org or 646.970.4959.

Thank you for your support, which ensures we continue to fulfill the commandment to remember and to tell all our children.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this email finds you well.  Next Friday, the world will commemorate the Shoah on International Holocaust Remembrance Day (IHRD). The day was designated in November 2005 by a UN resolution as it marked the 60th anniversary of the liberation of Nazi concentration camps and the end of the Holocaust. Countries around the world choose themes and mark the day with ceremonies and remembrances.

The theme for Holocaust Memorial Day 2023 in the United Kingdom is “Ordinary People.” It is based upon the idea that ordinary people both facilitated and were victims of the Holocaust.  At best, ordinary people turned a blind eye to the Nazis; at worst, they joined the murderous regime.  The Jews were ordinary people who were murdered for no other reason than they were Jewish.  And then, there were ordinary people who risked their lives to save Jews simply because it was the right thing to do.

In this week’s Torah portion, Vaeira, G-d commands  Moses and Aaron to return to Pharaoh and reiterates the demand that he release the Jewish people.  This time, G-d instructs them to prove to Pharaoh that G-d has sent them by performing a miracle–Aaron would throw his staff on the ground and it would turn into a serpent.

Rav Menachem Mendel Hager of the Vizhnitz Hasidic dynasty explains the significance of this wonder.  In Pirkei Avot (1:12), Aaron is famously described as a kind, sensitive person, a “lover of peace and pursuer of peace. . ..” He was an ordinary man who never instigated conflict or treated people with hostility.  The Rav suggests that his staff turning into a serpent – a symbol of evil, hatred and violence – represents how Pharaoh viewed good people as evil.

“Ordinary People” reinforces the notion that we are all essentially the same and that there but for the grace of G-d go any of us.  It also reminds us that we all have agency— the capacity to influence our own thoughts and behavior and to have faith in our ability to handle a wide range of situations.

Moreover, in Vaiera, we learn that we must be careful before “turning” our fellow man into a “serpent.”  We are to do just the opposite – to strive to see and appreciate all that is good in others and to magnify their admirable qualities, rather than searching for ways to criticize and malign.

As we commemorate International Holocaust Remembrance Day next week, we are grateful that you have chosen to engage with us and to support our work ensuring the lessons of the Holocaust remain relevant and resonant.

If you find yourself in New York in the next couple of weeks, I encourage you to visit the United Nations to see Yad Vashem’s newly dedicated Book of Names exhibition, which is on display there through February 17th.

Thank you and Shabbat Shalom,

Shabbat shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you and your loved ones well.

“There are Hitlers loose in America today, both in high and low places… As the tensions and bewilderment of economic problems become more severe, history(‘s) scapegoats, the Jews, will be joined by new scapegoats, the Negroes. The Hitlers will seek to divert people’s minds and turn their frustration and anger to the helpless, to the outnumbered. Then whether the Negro and Jew shall live in peace will depend upon how firmly they resist, how effectively they reach the minds of the decent Americans to halt this deadly diversion.”

These words were spoken by Rev Dr. Martin Luther King, May 14, 1958, in  an address to the National Biennial Convention of the American Jewish Congress. Dr. King was addressing “Anti-Semitism and Racism in America at that time. Unfortunately, as reported by the ADL, 2023 will see a continued increase of an old kind of hate that has been very visible lately. High-profile entertainers and athletes have openly spouted antisemitic tropes. Even political leaders have made disturbing comments and participated in or supported unacceptable events. And beyond these headlines, there has been a steady rise over the past five years in the number of hateful incidents directed at Jewish individuals and Jewish communities at large.

Elie Wiesel, someone who experienced one of the darkest periods in human history, dedicated his life to ensuring that the horror imposed upon Jews under the Nazi regime was never forgotten, and who championed the cause of human dignity, said the following: “Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented. Sometimes we must interfere. When human lives are endangered, when human dignity is in jeopardy, national borders and sensitivities become irrelevant. Wherever men or women are persecuted because of their race, religion, or political views, that place must—at that moment—become the center of the universe.”

Rabbi Dr. Saul Berman extended the Torah stipulation of “lifnei iver” (not placing a stumbling block before the blind) to mean that Jews are forbidden from aiding and abetting others in the commission of wrongdoing. In this sense, enabling a social evil constitutes a violation of this prohibition. Likewise, the obligation of Jews to deliver “tochacha” (rebuke) means we are obligated to morally improve both Jewish and non-Jewish societies.

Next week we will have the opportunity to honor, celebrate and remember Rev Dr. Martin Luther King. He dedicated his life to championing racial equality and to stamping out hatred. The work ASYV does daily in Holocaust remembrance, is first and foremost dedicated to remembering that the Holocaust was primarily directed at the Jews. However, as both Dr. King and Elie Wiesel reminded us, we have an obligation to never stand idly by when confronting hate.

This week, we note with sadness the second anniversary of the passing of Sheldon Adelson, z”l. Mr. Adelson was a leader along with his wife Dr. Miriam Adelson in supporting vital Jewish causes. He was a champion in supporting Holocaust remembrance and education. May his memory be a blessing.

Thank you for your continued support.

Shabbat shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

This week the Jewish world commemorated the 10th of Tevet, one of the many sad dates in the Jewish calendar. The date commemorates the beginning of the siege and eventual destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem. It is one of four biblical fast days observed by Jews for centuries.

After the tragedy of the Holocaust, the Jewish people and the State of Israel searched for an appropriate date and method to give expression to their grief and memorialize the innocent victims of this unprecedented slaughter. That date is the 27 of Nissan, Holocaust Remembrance Day/Yom HaShoah, which marks the beginning of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising of 1943, when Jewish resistance fighters defied the Nazis and fought for freedom and dignity. The observance includes the sounding of a siren, a moment of silence, special memorial programs, somber music and serious programming on the radio and television.

The rabbinate of Israel sought to commemorate the tragedy in a different, more traditional manner. They set aside the 10th of Tevet as a day of memorial with the universal recitation of Kaddish in memory of the six million victims of the Holocaust.

In Jewish history and tradition, great events are commemorated within a religious context; often tragedies are marked and remembered by fasting. One of the great challenges of modern Jewry is how to commemorate the enormous events that have occurred to us in the last century. How is the memory of the victims of the Holocaust to be sanctified? In our time, when a great section of the Jewish people no longer sees itself bound by traditional religious norms and the generation of the Holocaust falls to the attrition of time, the difficulty of commemorating the Holocaust meaningfully to new generations of Jews increases.

In 1979, Congress designated April 28–29, the anniversary of the American liberation of the Dachau concentration camp in 1945, as Days of Remembrance of Victims of the Holocaust. The dates were deliberate as there was American significance. Many countries, especially in Europe, commemorated the Holocaust on January 27, the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, the largest Nazi death camp in 1945. In 2005 the United Nations designated the date as an annual remembrance for Holocaust victims.

As the generation of the Holocaust survivors pass on, the challenge of commemorating the Holocaust in a meaningful way to new generations of Jews and society at large increases. We have an obligation to ensure Jewish memory and that the world at large will never forget. Thank you for your support and for enabling ASYV to advocate and advance meaningful Holocaust remembrance.

Shabbat shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this email finds you and your family well.

As we close 2022, I want to thank you for your help in making the past year a successful one at ASYV. We had a record campaign as our donors recognized the importance of reminding the world what can happen when good people do nothing. And it’s not only about the dollars raised. As Covid restrictions eased, we were able to come together at various outreach and fundraising events around the country, connecting us around a common cause. With rising antisemitism and growing Holocaust distortion and trivialization, every single donor makes a strong statement—that we have not forgotten the past and must keep the lessons of the Holocaust in front of us.

Thank you for being a part of ASYV. You embody Anne Frank’s message that “nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.” A meaningful gift of any size makes a statement of support for our work. If you haven’t yet made a gift, please consider joining us now. You can donate here.

Wishing you all the best in 2023.

Shabbat shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you and your families well.

This week’s Torah portion Miketz, tells the story of Joseph’s sudden rise to the position of vizier in Egypt, a position whose paramount duty was to supervise the running of the country. After languishing in prison for thirteen years, Joseph was brought before Pharaoh to interpret the king’s dreams. Impressed by Joseph’s interpretation, Pharoah names him as the kingdom’s second-in-command.

The Midrash (Midrash Aggada, cited in Torah Sheleima to Bereishit 49:23, #309) relates that when Pharaoh appointed Joseph to the post, he came under criticism from Joseph’s former master, Potifar. Potifar asked Pharaoh how he could turn his slave into a member of the royal class. The Midrash tells that Joseph himself defended his right to kingship, noting that he was a descendant of royalty– his great grandparents were Abraham and Sarah.

The Midrash’s depiction of Joseph’s confrontation with Potifar perhaps underscores Joseph’s ability to retain his sense of pride, dignity, and self-worth even when subjected to shame and degradation. Joseph never forgot who he was – a descendant and heir to the spiritual legacy of the patriarchs and matriarchs–a member of G-d’s “royal” family.

How appropriate that this Torah portion often falls around the holiday of Chanukah. Chanukah commemorates the Jewish people recalling their culture and identity and the subsequent rededication of the Second Temple. We have witnessed many oppressive regimes throughout our history, none more devastating than the Holocaust. Joseph, Chanukah and the Midrash all teach us that we must never let anybody, or any situation, define who we are.

There were two stories in the news this week that reinforce this message.

One appeared in the Times of Israel about an Oscar-qualifying short film featuring a heroic young WWII partisan whose violin became a symbol of resistance. Its young owner, Motale Schlein, survived a deportation at 11 years old by hiding in an attic, only to die tragically at 14 when his partisan group came under heavy fire from Nazi forces. Schlein’s violin survived the war and is on display in the permanent museum exhibition at Yad Vashem in Jerusalem—and still played. It is an inspiring story which ASYV featured at our virtual Gala last year. You can see the clip here.

Another story appeared in the New York Times about the famous photo taken by Rebbetzin Rachel Posner in Kiel, Germany. In 1931, she took a photo of a menorah on her windowsill juxtaposed with the Nazi swastika flag hanging menacingly on the party’s regional headquarters. On its back, she wrote: “The flag says ‘death to Judaism,’ the light says ‘Judaism will live forever.“ That menorah was used this week in Germany in a candle lighting ceremony in the presence of German president Frank-Walter Steinmeier and the Posner grandchildren. The Menorah is on permanent display at Yad Vashem, except for Chanukah, when it is returned to the family to use.

Thank you for being a part of ASYV, enabling us to be a voice that reminds the world of the stories of the Holocaust and that despite the dire history, we are a part of a precious and proud legacy.

If you have not yet made your 2022 gift, please consider doing so before the end of the year. Thank you to all who already have. Enjoy the last days of Chanukah and happy holidays to all.

 Shabbat Shalom and Happy Chanukah,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this e-mail finds you and your family well.

With the disheartening rise in antisemitism today, I want to bring to your attention an incredibly interesting and comprehensive online course, Antisemitism: From Its Origins to the Present, which explores this virus, from its roots to its contemporary forms.

Yad Vashem brought together 50 leading scholars from all over the world to explore questions and issues relating to antisemitism including: What is antisemitism? How has it changed throughout history? Why can it be found among so many diverse cultures, and even among opposing ideologies? What happened to antisemitism after the Holocaust? How is antisemitism expressed today, and what are the main spheres in which it can be found? Yad Vashem believes the best antidote to combat this scourge is education. There is no better time than now to learn about the perils of this targeted hatred.

Antisemitism: From Its Origins to the Present, can be found via the Yad Vashem website.

Thank you for your continued interest and generous support. Your participation in our work matters.

Shabbat Shalom and Happy Chanukah,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this finds you well. On Thursday morning, I woke up at my usual time to my usual news station. The correspondent was reporting on Chanukah, the festival of lights. She noted that many who have the practice of displaying the menorah in the window may not be doing so this year out of fear due to the rising antisemitism.

Chanukah is different for me this year. For starters, my thoughts are with the hostages and their families, our brave soldiers, and their families. And of course, the thousands of people who had to leave their homes due to the rockets being fired by Hamas and Hezbollah. Waking up to that news report made me depressed and angry.

As I often do, I went back and recalled the stories of our survivors and their examples of resilience, defiance and lessons for life. I remembered the story of the Posner family who famously photographed their menorah in the window juxtaposed against the Nazi flag hanging from the building across the street. The photograph is captioned, “Death to Judah” so the flag says. Judah will live forever.” I was reminded that even in Theresienstadt, the camp’s inhabitants found a way to carve an ornate Chanukah menorah/hanukiah—with nine candle holders and a Star of David. A Hebrew inscription curves over the top: “Who is like you, O Lord, among the celestials?”

And then, I found an article on the laws of Chanukah by Rabbi David Silverberg of Yeshiva Har Etzion and learned something interesting. Uncharacteristically, the lighting of the Chanukah candles is accompanied by two blessings/brachot (three on the first night). Following the standard blessing for the commandment/mitzvah, one recites the blessing of She’asa Nissim, giving thanks to G-d for the miracles performed “in those days, at this time.” Yet, in Maimonides’ Mishneh Torah, we see that some of the manuscripts have a slightly different version, which reads “bayamim hahem *uvizman* hazeh,” which translates as “in those days “and” at this time.” With the addition of a single letter vav, which means “and,” these editions offer an entirely new meaning to this blessing. We thank G-d for the miracles performed for our ancestors in ancient times, as well as those performed in contemporary times.

So while it is difficult, and perhaps a little less joyous, I am celebrating Chanukah. I am celebrating the miracle of Israeli civil society, whose solidarity has been inspiring, and I am celebrating the heroism of the Israeli soldiers. I am celebrating the Jewish community here in the United States and around the world, whose grassroots efforts empower us, and the brave college students who will not give in to the hatred and double standard that exists on their campuses and are defending Israel and their Jewish identity. Our collective resolve in the face of these recent horrors is nothing short of miraculous, and a reminder of what we are capable of when we come together.

In the midst of the grief and the fear, there are miracles all around us, just as there were long ago. We are in very challenging times, but we must remain resolutely committed to our cause. As we move forward, our challenge is to not lose sight of these miracles, to be inspired by them, empowered to persevere until the darkness of this moment is overtaken by a stronger shining light. Our survivors did it. We must, too. Am Yisrael Chai.

Chanukah Sameach and Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this finds you well. I want to tell you about a thank you reception for members of ASYV’s Donor Circles that took place last week. Graciously hosted by Caroline Massel, chair of ASYV’s Education Committee and a member of our executive committee, and her husband, Morris, the event was significant for several reasons.

Firstly, the program was thoughtful and thought provoking. It featured Rabbi Justin Pines of the Shalom Hartman Institute North America whose grandfather was a Schindler Jew, in conversation with Abe Foxman, a child survivor, member of the ASYV Advisory Council, and Director Emeritus of the ADL. They discussed how the Holocaust has shaped our society, politics and culture today and how Holocaust education can help combat antisemitism.

Secondly, the more than 50 people in attendance spanned all ages and included new donors and veteran leaders. It was heartening to see that our mission resonates with such a wide audience and that so many people made the effort to come together around this topic in the middle of the summer. Everyone left having learned something new or considering a new perspective.

Lastly, it was a chance to recognize our donors for their consistent and generous support.   Yad Vashem/ ASYV’s work would simply not be possible without your interest and commitment to Holocaust education, research, documentation and commemoration. At a time of rising antisemitism, Holocaust trivialization and distortion, we must recommit to ensuring the relevance and resonance of this unprecedented period in our history and the lessons it teaches us. You make that happen. Thank you.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this update finds you and your families well.

I just finished reading I Escaped from Auschwitz by Rudolf Vrba, the story of the successful escape of two Slovak prisoners from one of the most heavily guarded and notorious concentration camps of Nazi Germany. Rudolf Vrba and Alfred Wetzler fled over 100 miles to be the first to give the graphic and detailed descriptions of the atrocities of Auschwitz. Their goal was to warn the world of the mass slaughter underway in a death camp whose existence was barely known. Incredibly, they were successful and played a role in saving over 200,000 Jews.

When I finished the book, I thought about Dr. Victor Frankl, the Austrian neurologist, psychiatrist, and philosopher. In 1942 Frankl and his family were sent to Theresienstadt and later to Auschwitz. Dr. Frankl founded a school of thought called logotherapy, proposing that a search for meaning is the ultimate purpose in a person’s life. Through meaning we have direction, purpose, and a driving force with which to push through hardship, adversity and the struggles of day-to-day life.

We as a people have had to deal with serious hardships and challenges. Just yesterday, on our calendar, we observed Tisha B’Av, the 9th of Av, on which date both Holy Temples in Jerusalem were destroyed in addition to other sad events. It is truly remarkable that we live in a time when there is a sovereign State of Israel, and while Theodor Herzl believed that a national homeland would solve the Jewish problem, it clearly has not. Antisemitism sadly, is ever present today.

In addition to observing Tisha B’Av this week has been a deeply challenging one for the State of Israel. On this Shabbat Nachamu, a Shabbat of comfort, we can hopefully begin the process of healing. We have much left to do to garner the energy of our people to create one united whole. As Dr. Frankl wrote, “forces beyond your control can take away everything you possess except one thing, your freedom to choose how you will respond to the situation.”

Thank you for all that you do to support ASYV in helping Yad Vashem’s mission of remembrance, commemoration, and education.

Of particular note, on Tuesday, August 1st, the ASYV New York Tri-State Region will be hosting Abe Foxman, Holocaust Survivor, member of the ASYV Advisory Council and Former Director of the ADL in conversation with Rabbi Justin Pines, Director of Lay Leadership for the Shalom Hartman Institute of North America, on the State of Antisemitism. For information about this Leadership Circle program, please see the link below on upcoming events.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you and your family well.

This week, we read the double portion of Matot-Masei, with the second portion, “Masei” meaning “Journeys.” The forty-two journeys and encampments of Israel are listed, from the Exodus to their encampment on the plains of Moab across the river from the land of Canaan.

With journeys being the theme of this week’s parsha, I want to tell you about ASYV’s journey to the Southeast this past week. Denise Herschberg, our Southeast Region Director, and Amy Cooper, National Campaign Director, journeyed to Atlanta, one of the fastest growing Jewish communities in the country, to meet with Jewish leaders and donors and to gain a better understanding of what ASYV and Yad Vashem could offer the Jewish community there. They were warmly welcomed there and learned that there is tremendous receptivity and interest in the unique resources we could provide. They also met with Israeli Consul General, Anat Sultan-Dadon, and discussed how we might work together to enhance Holocaust education in the region.

The next journey was to Memphis, where Amy, Suzy Schwartz and I all met up with Andy Groveman, who we will have the privilege of honoring at our Annual Gala on November 2 in New York City (see the invitation below for details and to participate). Both visits allowed us to reflect on the uniqueness of Yad Vashem and the value we can bring to communities interested in providing high quality Holocaust education to their constituencies.

None of this would be possible without your continued interest and commitment to our work. Thank you for all you do.

Wishing you a Shabbat Shalom.

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you and your family well.

The opening section of this week’s Torah portion, Chukat, presents the command to slaughter and burn a red heifer, para aduma. The concept of the red heifer is one of those rare commandments where we are not sure of the reasoning behind it. Many theories have been formulated. One caught my attention.

Rav Kalonymus Kalman Shapira, the Grand Rabbi of Piaseczno, Poland, who was murdered by the Nazis during the Holocaust, connects the red heifer and Miriam’s death, which took place in last week’s parsha, in his book of teachings, Holy Fire/ Eish Kodesh. It is based on a theory by Rashi (19:22) who cites Rabbi Moshe Ha-darshan, the renowned rabbi often quoted by Rashi in his commentaries. Rabbi Ha-darshan notes that the law of the red heifer serves to atone for the sin of the golden calf.

On this basis, Rabbi Shapira revisits the Talmud’s teaching that the Jewish people received water in the wilderness in Miriam’s merit. Miriam felt genuine love and compassion for all Jews, even when they misbehaved and caused trouble. Miriam was unreservedly committed to helping everyone. It was in the merit of this unbridled concern that each Jew received water. Just as Miriam loved the Israelites unconditionally, so too are we to love and feel compassion for each and every one of our fellow Jews, despite their faults and failings.

Rabbi Shapira delivered this message to Jews in the Warsaw Ghetto during the Holocaust emphasizing the importance of sharing the pain of every fellow Jew in distress. What incredible faith and resilience Rabbi Shapira had to encourage everyone to keep their humanity and decency despite unimaginable surroundings.

Yad Vashem’s unique educational philosophy is to talk about the horrors of the Holocaust, but also to convey to the world that, despite such unthinkable and inconceivable events unfolding around them, the victims never lost their humanity and continued to help others.

In these days, with so much distortion and hate, we need to be reminded of such lessons. Thanks to your support, you enable Yad Vashem to share those lessons—and be a voice world-wide.

With Independence Day upon us and the summer season in full swing, our weekly message will be coming out every other week through Labor Day. Happy July 4!

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you well. Unfortunately, this past week saw terror strike again in Israel, with four people killed. Our hearts go out to the victims’ families for the steep price they paid for us to have a homeland. May their memory be a blessing.

Yad Vashem’s vision is to lead the documentation, research, education and commemoration of the Holocaust, and to convey the chronicles of this singular Jewish and human event to every person in Israel, to the Jewish people, and to every significant and relevant audience worldwide.

By preserving its Jewish character within the universal context, and yet maintaining the authentic individual voice emanating from testimonies, diaries, artifacts and other documentation, Yad Vashem continues to pave the way for a brighter future. Underlying everything is remembering the names and voices of every victim and survivor.

Last month Haim Roet, a child Holocaust survivor, passed away at age 90 (see his obituary from the New York Times below). Mr. Roet initiated the commemorative project, “Unto Every Person There Is a Name,” a public recitation of the names of Holocaust victims, in response to a protest demonstration by Jews of Dutch origin in Israel against the release of two Nazi criminals from prison in 1989. Since then, victims’ names have been recited on Holocaust Heroes’ and Martyrs’ Remembrance Day in Israel and overseas. He also played a major role in the recognition of Jewish efforts to save other Jews, serving as the Chairman of the Committee for the Recognition of Jews who Rescued Jews during the Holocaust. Mr. Roet is survived by his wife, three children and eight grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and a brother, ensuring his voice will not be lost. May his memory be a blessing.

Another way Yad Vashem directly paves the way for a brighter future is through education.

Earlier this month, under the auspices of the International School for Holocaust Studies (ISHS) at Yad Vashem, twenty-two university/college faculty members from across the US came together at Yad Vashem in Jerusalem, for the inaugural Alan Cornell US Campus Faculty Seminar. With the increase in Holocaust distortion, rise in antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment, particularly on our campuses, the Cornell family wanted to do something proactively that could make a difference. Alan z”l, and his wife, Jane, are both children of survivors. Thanks to their visionary leadership and generosity, Jane and her family encouraged ISHS to develop this special seminar geared to faculty teaching in US universities and colleges.

Reactions from the participants speak to its success:

• “The seminar gave me many new ways of thinking about teaching about antisemitism and the Holocaust, especially using the workshop materials that were presented to us. I plan to incorporate these teaching materials into my classes.”
• “I learned so much about the city of Jerusalem; the intense issues that exist in this country; how and why antisemitism existed in many forms for over 2000 years and how we are all one!!!”

Yad Vashem’s ISHS, the only school of its kind in the world, offers extensive activities for students and educators in the field of Holocaust education and develops innovative methods, creative materials, and multimedia tools tailor-made for educators worldwide. A fascinating aspect of the first seminar class was that most of the participants do not currently teach this subject but represent a cross section of different teaching fields. Multiply that by the number of students these educators will impact, and we can change viewpoints.

Our thanks to the Cornell family. They, along with all our generous supporters, allow Yad Vashem to do innovative work that makes a difference.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you and your loved ones well. This coming week outside of Israel we will read the Torah portion Shelach. A highlight of this portion relates the unfortunate story of the twelve spies who were sent to assess the promised land and returned with a negative report. Moses instructs them to travel throughout the Land of Israel and report about the land’s quality and its inhabitants. One of the questions Moses asked was whether the land had trees–Ha-yeish bah eitz im ayin (13:20). The Gemara (Bava Batra 15a) explains that Moses speaks of trees allegorically; that he was, in fact, asking the spies whether there were righteous people in the land to protect the inhabitants through their merits, like a tree that provides shade from the sun.

Rabbi David Silverberg of Yeshiva Har Etzion asks why would the “protective” powers of the righteous be compared specifically to the shade produced by a tree? Rashi, citing the Midrash (Kohelet Rabba 1:3), explains that King David compares human mortality to the momentary shade provided by a bird which briefly conceals the sun while flying, as opposed to the shade provided by a tree or wall, which is permanent. Accordingly, the Gemara may be comparing righteous individuals to trees in order to emphasize their consistency.

One of Yad Vashem’s principal duties is to convey the gratitude of the State of Israel and the Jewish people to the Righteous Among the Nations who took great risks to save Jews during the Holocaust. This mission was defined by the law establishing Yad Vashem, and in 1963 the Remembrance Authority embarked upon a worldwide project to grant the title of Righteous Among the Nations to the few who helped Jews in the darkest time in their history. To this end, Yad Vashem set up a public Commission, headed by a Supreme Court Justice, which examines each case and is responsible for granting the title. Those recognized receive a medal and a certificate of honor and their names are commemorated on the Mount of Remembrance in Jerusalem. That it chose a garden on its campus to honor these heroes aligns beautifully with Rashi’s comparison of trees to righteousness.

Yad Vashem’s Righteous Among the Nations project is a unique and unprecedented attempt by victims to pay tribute to people who stood by their side at a time of persecution and great tragedy. It brings to mind another recent and important initiative spearheaded by Abraham Foxman, the National Director Emeritus of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL),a child survivor and longtime board member of ASYV and entrepreneur, Art Reidel, another child survivor, who co-chaired the Forgotten Heroes of the Holocaust Congressional Gold Medal Committee. They wanted to recognize those diplomats who used every tool they had at their disposal to help Jews fleeing persecution. The bipartisan legislation S.91- Forgotten Heroes of the Holocaust Congressional Gold Medal Act awarded a Congressional Gold Medal to 60 diplomats in recognition of their heroism and bravery during the Holocaust.

At the ceremony, Abe captured the significance of the legislative effort:

I decided a long time ago not to be a witness to the evil, to the brutality that men are capable of. I decided to bear witness to goodness, to decency, to compassion, to humanity, to my nanny Bronislawa Kurpi, and to all others who have made a colossal difference in that they saved lives- Jewish lives. And that’s why I am here today and that’s what hopefully you’re here to celebrate, to honor, to embrace, to thank those diplomats who risked their careers, their reputations, their pensions, and maybe their freedoms to save Jews, thousands of Jews.

 Kol hakavod, Abe, and thank you for your leadership, your devotion and commitment to stand up to hatred, to stand up to evil and to create a better and brighter world for us.

Please take special note of our Lessons from Our Parents Live featuring a conversation with Dr. Julio Frenk, President of the University of Miami and his wife, Dr. Felicia Knaul.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this message finds you well.

As you have read these past weeks, ASYV had a very busy spring calendar with A Concert for Sugihara in New York and LA, a live taping of Lessons from Our Parents in Florida, several Diversity and Inclusion events at major companies, and more. Now, we are gearing up for the rest of the year to offer exclusive Yad Vashem programming and bring communities together around a common cause.

This is a good opportunity to thank you for your continued interest and support. Yad Vashem can only fulfill its mission of Holocaust research, documentation, education and commemoration with your partnership. Thank you for your generosity and your confidence in us.

Please be on the lookout for our upcoming programs—including our annual Gala taking place on Thursday, November 2 in New York City when we will have the chance to honor executive board member, Andy Groveman for his commitment to Yad Vashem and recognize YLA immediate past chairs, Josh Gelnick and Rachel Shnay for their leadership.

Wishing you a Shabbat shalom,

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you and your loved ones well.

Unfortunately, this past week, Israelis once again had to endure a terrorist attack that claimed the life of a young father, Meir Tamari. Our thoughts are with his family. May his memory be a blessing.

Memorial Day marks the beginning of the lazy days of summer when we look forward to slowing down and enjoying the great weather with friends and family. It got me thinking about what it was like this same week during the Shoah. Two events come to mind.

• On May 29, 1942, German authorities required all Jews residing in France to wear the yellow Star of David on their outer clothing, effective June 7.
• From June 1-6, 1943, German authorities began deporting Jews from the Krakow ghetto. By June 8, 6,000 Jews from the ghetto were sent to the Belzec killing center.

I note these events because one, they make us realize how fortunate we are today, but two, it is essential that we never forget the details of what happened to the Jewish people during those years. At a time when facts are so easily distorted, we must ensure the historic accuracy of our story. That is Yad Vashem’s core mission—to educate, research, document and commemorate the Shoah to safeguard the truth. Thanks to your support, you make that possible.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you are your family well. With the upcoming holiday on Friday, I am writing a day earlier.

We were delighted with the performance of A Concert for Sugihara that took place last Thursday night in Los Angeles. Co-sponsored by ASYV and UCLA, students, as well as donors, were inspired by the music and the opportunity to meet Kristina Cooper, the catalyst for this special tribute.

As this week ends, we will celebrate the holiday of Shavuot. It commemorates the date G‑d gave the Torah to the Jewish people at Mount Sinai over 3,300 years ago. Today, Shavuot is celebrated by some staying up all night to study Torah, listening to the reading of the Ten Commandments in synagogue, enjoying dairy foods and partaking in other festivities.

When the Temple in Jerusalem stood, people would begin to bring their first and choicest fruits/bikkurim to thank G‑d for Israel’s bounty. Two wheat loaves would be offered on Shavuot.

I am continuously inspired when I learn of stories of individuals who, despite great risk, maintained their dignity by marking the holidays during the Shoah. One such example is that of Elizabeth Spitz’s father, a member of the Jewish Council in the Satu Mare Ghetto in Hungary. Established in the beginning of May 1944, the ghetto was almost completely liquidated by the end of May. Before everyone was deported, though, her father undertook a “secret” operation to provide challah for Shavuot to all the remining Jews. She remembers her father disappearing the night before Shavuot to organize 50 to 60 other men to bake challahs for the holiday. The next morning, he and his team of bakers delivered two challahs to every family that was still in the ghetto.

It is countless stories like this one, that Yad Vashem, through its Archives and Gathering of the Fragments programs, ensures are never forgotten. Thanks to your continued support, you help guarantee that these programs continue.

Chag Sameach and Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly e-mail finds you and your family well. Yom Yerushalayim, which falls on 28 Iyar, this year on May 19, celebrates the reunification of the city of Jerusalem during the Six Day War in 1967.  Soon after, Elie Wiesel wrote:

Future generations will probably never believe it. Teachers will have a hard time convincing their students that what sounds legendary actually occurred. The children will, naturally, swallow each word, but later on, as adults, they’ll nod their heads and smile, remarking that these were fantasies of history. They won’t believe that this small state, surrounded by hatred, fire and murder, had so quickly managed a miracle. It will be hard to describe how, amid a sea of hatred, a tiny army drove off and humiliated several well-equipped military hordes of who knows how many Arab countries. How does acclaimed scholar and talmudic genius Shaul Lieberman put it? In another 2,000 years, people will consider these events the way we think of descriptions of the Maccabees and their victories. . .

Quietly, we asked if the test was too hard this time. Was too much being demanded from the Jewish people and from their land? How could we expect to be redeemed, knowing that the enemy numbered tens of millions, even hundreds of millions of people, against a mere 2 million Jews in Israel?

And then, between Passover and Shavuot, the Hanukkah miracle occurred. It didn’t take long before the supposedly mighty enemy was rendered speechless and lost its nerve.

It may well be that future generations won’t comprehend how Israel vanquished her enemies. Yes, there are sacrifices, but in the long run nothing gets lost. And yet the blood that was shed by our young lions, the sacrifices endured, everything will be inscribed. Each widow’s tear, every death rattle of the fallen soldiers – they won’t pass unnoticed by our descendants.

This new Jewish awakening is part of that miracle, a part of the Jewish victory. Those who thought Jews were frightened by huge armies were mistaken, and those who thought you could separate the Jewish state from the Jewish people around the world clearly underestimated us.

A number of years ago, I had the privilege to be in Israel on Yom Yerushalayim. Standing on the streets of the city, I watched youngsters from around the world waving Israeli flags, singing and dancing with a joy that was overwhelming. As I watched the celebrations, I was overcome with emotion because suddenly I had a vision of the 1.5 million children who were murdered in the Shoah not because of anything they had done, not because of anything their parents had done, but because their grandparents happened to be Jews. We have had the privilege to be born in a generation that has seen Jerusalem reunited and rebuilt. We have seen the Jewish people come home.

It is no accident that the Mountain of Remembrance, where Yad Vashem is located is next to Mt Herzl Military Cemetery. We have a sacred duty to remember what we lost and the sacrifices that the men and women of the State of Israel make to ensure our sovereignty.

Thank you for joining with Yad Vashem and ASYV in this holy task.  Chag Sameach.

Shabbat Shalom and Am Yirsrael Chai!

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you and your families well. As I write this edition, our thoughts and prayers are with our family in Israel as we hope that Operation Shield and Arrow concludes quickly, bringing peace.

In this coming week’s Torah portions of Behar-Bechukotai, the portion of Bechukotai contains “the Chastisement”/Tokchacha, the seven curses that would befall the Israelites. It also tells us that despite the exile, G-d will remember the merits of our forefathers.

It reminded me that an additional Tokheha appears in the portion of Kitavo and of a story Rabbi Shlomo Riskin, Chief Rabbi of Efrat and founder of Yeshiva Ohr Torah, relates in his book Listening to G-d. As a 12 year old, he visited the Brooklyn synagogue established by the Rebbe of Sanz-Klausenberg. A Holocaust survivor himself, the Rebbe’s wife and thirteen children had been murdered in the Shoah. It was said that he had not sat shiva for any of them believing that those still alive must be saved with exit visas before one could be allowed the luxury of mourning for the dead. The Rebbe himself was among the last to leave Europe, insisting that the captain does not leave the sinking ship before its passengers.

As the Torah reader began to chant the weekly portion that particular Shabbat, he came to the Tokheha and began to read in the time-honored custom of a rapid whisper. A sound suddenly came from the Rebbe; he said only one word: “louder”/”heche.” The Torah reader immediately stopped reading and seemed to hesitate for a few moments. He then continued reading in a whisper. The Rebbe turned around to face the congregation, banged on the lectern, his eyes blazing, “I said louder”, he shouted out. “Let the Master of the Universe hear! We have nothing to be afraid of. We have already received all of the curses- and more. Let the Almighty hear and let him understand that the time has come to send blessings!”. The Torah reader continued chanting loudly, in a much slower cadence.

At the conclusion of services, the Rebbe once again turned to his congregation and cried out, conveying a deep love, “Mein tayere shvestern un birider/my beloved sisters and brothers, the blessing will come. . . G-d promised the blessing after the curses, but they will come from the land of Israel. Let us pack our bags for the last time. Our community is setting out for Israel.” And indeed, it wasn’t very long after that Shabbat, that the Rebbe led his flock to settle in Netanya, where they founded Kiryat Sanz.

An essential mission of Yad Vashem is to remember not just what occurred during the Shoah itself, but also the resiliency and valuable contributions survivors have made to grow and sustain Jewish life throughout the world. Your support ensures that the story of the Shoah before, during and after continues to be told. Thank you for helping make that happen.

Yet another example of our resilience is the May 18 A Concert for Sugihara at UCLA’s Royce Hall. It honors a man who saved thousands of Jewish lives and is responsible for tens of thousands of descendants today. Not coincidentally, it coincides with Jerusalem Day/ Yom Yerushalayim.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this email finds you and your family well. Perry Dane, a law professor at Rutgers University, shares a powerful insight from this week’s Torah portion/Parshat Emor about hope and redemption in the face of collective tragedy.

The parsha begins:

 “And Hashem said to Moses: Speak to the priests/kohanim, the sons of 

Aaron, and say to them: Let none [of you] defile himself for a dead 

person among his people except for his relative who is close to 

him. . .” 

Parshat Emor emphasizes that the kohanim, the religious functionaries of pre-Rabbinic times, were excluded from involvement with the rituals of death. Think for a moment–in pre-Rabbinic times, when the Kohanim were the principal religious functionaries, they were excluded from playing an official role in funerals or in the burial of the dead, one of the basic functions of a rabbi today. The principle that kohanim would defile themselves by coming into contact with the dead reflects that separation between the work of holiness and the abyss of the grave. It prescribes a clear dividing line between life and death. There is one significant exception, however—the rituals of collective Jewish tragedy.

Professor Dane explains that the tragedies that have befallen the Jewish people throughout its history, have all “powerfully and poignantly shaped Jewish religious life, ceremony and liturgy…. and what is remarkable about the Jewish rituals of collective tragedy is that they are never left to marinate in their own bitterness. The tradition consistently juxtaposes them against expressions of hope or even redemption.”

That is why Tisha B’Av is not only a day of lament. It also ushers in the seven weeks of comfort leading to Rosh Hashanah. The Omer counts us up to Shavuot, the celebration of the giving of the Torah. Yizkor is a moment of sadness snuck into the middle of days of holiday joy. And the leaders of the State of Israel tapped into this same pattern in an act of symbolic genius, locating Yom Hazikaron (Israel’s Memorial Day) on the very eve before Yom Ha’atzmaut (Israel’s Independence Day).

These juxtapositions are profound. Our expressions of hope do not negate our tragedies nor should we think that tragedy, horror and suffering are somehow redemptive. But Jewish tradition does demand that we attach them, however hard and paradoxical it is, into a larger story of redemption.

Elie Wiesel, in his Nobel Lecture titled “Hope, Despair, and Memory.” asked if Job lost his faith. He answered:

I remember the killers and I despair. I remember the victims 
and, on their behalf and for their sake and for their children’s 
sake, I must invent a thousand and one reasons to hope. In  
our Jewish cult of the dead, we do not deify the dead. We do  
not seek wisdom by conjuring up the ghosts of the dead.  
But we do seek wisdom in the memory of the dead.  

Elie Wiesel’s words beautifully articulate the mission of Yad Vashem to remember the past in order to secure a safer future. As always, thank you for your interest and your partnership. We could not do our work without you.

If you are in Los Angeles on May 18, I urge you to join us for Righteousness and Bravery: A Concert for Sugihara, a symphony of redemption and hope in the face of tragedy.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you and your family well.

This week we celebrated Israel Independence Day/Yom Haatzmaut. I found a very thought-provoking page on the Yad Vashem website on the impact survivors had in the creation of the State.

Abba Kovner, Holocaust survivor, poet, partisan, and one of the leaders of the Vilna ghetto underground, wrote of his fellow survivors rebuilding their lives:

“I would not have been surprised had those same survivors become bands of thieves, robbers and murderers; had they done so, they might well have been the most humane and just of their kind.”

Kovner’s comments reflect his wonderment at the survivors’ rehabilitative and creative energies. The fact that they were able to build and create after all the suffering and trauma that was their lot during the Holocaust is not to be taken for granted.

Following WWII, most Holocaust survivors chose to concentrate on building their lives, with many of them doing so in the land of Israel/Eretz Israel. The successful integration of those survivors into their new society is unparalleled in the history of human migrations. Rarely has a group of new immigrants become such active partners in shaping the face and character of their new home. From the start, the survivors took on two simultaneous missions: shaping and preserving the memory of the Shoah and constructive social action.

Starting in the 1950s, Holocaust survivors began to outline the fundamentals of Shoah remembrance. They became the first researchers in the field, the founders of its museums and commemorative institutions, and the authors of communal memorial books. Having personally lived through the Holocaust, they perceived its significance and knew it must be documented through firsthand testimony. They led legislative measures leading to the Knesset’s adoption of the 1953 Martyrs’ and Heroes’ (Yad Vashem) Law, followed in 1959 by the Martyrs’ and Heroes’ Remembrance Day Law.

At the same time, the survivors contributed substantially by joining in Israel’s formative society. Many arrived and quickly became part of the combat forces fighting for Israel’s independence and joining the ranks of the Israel Defense Forces. In fact, Holocaust survivors constituted approximately half of Israel’s combat soldiers during its War of Independence.

Holocaust survivors became an inseparable part of Israeli society, with their legacy evident in numerous fields: land reclamation and settlement, industry, science, economics, law, academia and culture. From their ranks emerged painters and graphic designers, poets and authors, athletes and stage performers, scientists and intellectuals, restoring themselves by committing to living lives of productive labor and creative endeavor.

Holocaust survivor Leyb Rochman sums up the role of the State of Israel in the survivors’ experience:

“I can attest to my own restoration. . . I thought I would never again see my mother, sister or brother. Now, I see them once more – in the faces of my children and granddaughter, in my home in Jerusalem, where they have been as if reborn, before my very eyes. It’s no wonder that everything that’s happened here is so dear to us. . . Perhaps only those who feel the great pain of the past can fathom what we have accomplished here, what we have been privileged to attain.”

We have the responsibility–the obligation to continue to tell this remarkable story of tragedy and rebuilding. Thank you for your continued partnership. It enables us to continue carrying forward this remarkable legacy. Am Yisrael Chai!

I want to especially note the West Coast Premiere of A Concert for Sugihara on May 18 at Royce Hall in partnership with UCLA.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope you all had a wonderful Passover. I am glad to write again after a brief hiatus.

“What happened exceeded our boldest dreams. The Germans fled twice from the ghetto. . . Only a handful will survive. All the rest will succumb, sooner or later. Their fate has been sealed. . . Goodbye my friend. Perhaps we will see each other again. The main thing is this: My life’s dream has become a reality. I have seen the Jewish defense of the ghetto in all its strength and glory”.

23 [21] April 1943 Mordechai Anielewicz, Warsaw Ghetto

This is an important week on the Jewish calendar. Holocaust and Heroism Remembrance Day/ Yom HaZikaron laShoah ve-laG’vurah or Holocaust Remembrance Day/Yom HaShoah, inaugurated in 1953, began on Monday evening, continuing into Tuesday, April 18^th/27 of Nisan. Yom HaShoah commemorates the approximately six million Jews and five million others who perished during the Holocaust because of the actions carried out by Nazi Germany and its perpetrators, and the Jewish resistance during that time. Yesterday, Thursday, April 20^th we observed the 80th anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising.

Right in the middle, on Wednesday, April 19^th, ASYV and Yad Vashem presented the sold-out Concert for Sugihara at Carnegie Hall—a tribute to Chiune Sugihara, the Japanese Vice Consul in Lithuania, who saved thousands of Jewish refugees in 1940. Sugihara issued visas that proved lifesaving for thousands of Jewish refugees and for doing so, against the orders of his government, was designated a Righteous Among the Nations by Yad Vashem in 1984.

Among the many highlights of the evening was having Nobuki Sugihara, son of Chiune Sugihara as our special guest. The Talmud tells us that if we save one life, it is as if we have saved the world. I was overcome with emotion as descendants of “Sugihara Survivors” lined up to thank Nobuki for what his father did and to tell him of the tens of grandchildren and scores of great grandchildren alive today because of his actions. Chiune Sugihara saved many worlds.

ASYV was proud to present this innovative and creative program to recognize Yom Hashoah and convey to the broader community the importance of Holocaust education and remembrance.

Thank you for your continued interest and support.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

As I write this weekly message, our Young Leadership Associates (YLA) just held an amazing Gala. Over 300 young men and women came together to express their support for ASYV and Yad Vashem. They raised over $80,000, more than twice the past record.

As the Gala unfolded, I was struck by a beautiful insight that I came across in Rabbi Shalom Rosner’s Haggada as I was preparing for Passover. He explains that when breaking the middle matza/ Yahatz, we take the larger piece to hide and use for the Tzafun, the afikomen. Traditionally, we do this to keep the children interested in the Seder; they find it and bargain to secure a gift. In Rabbi Rosner’s Haggada, he notes an additional explanation from the Shemen HaTov, a compendium of Torah thoughts/ divrei torah related to the Hassidic giants Rabbi Shmuel Shmelke of Nikolsburg and his brother, Rabbi Pinchas Halevi Horowitz (1730-1805). The word Tzafun means “hidden”. We hide the larger piece of the matza and take it out after we conclude our meal and begin the second half of the Seder. While the first half of the seder focuses on the story of our slavery in Egypt, the second half takes on a different facet—our future redemption. It is at the end of the second half that we sing “Next Year in Jerusalem”.

Perhaps the message to children is that the future is in their hands. To ensure a future we must remember the past–that is a critical lesson of the Seder. We relive the slavery of our ancestors in Egypt but we look towards the future as we conclude the Seder. Similarly, an essential message of Yad Vashem is to remember life before the Shoah. We cannot grasp the magnitude of the Holocaust without knowing what we lost, nor appreciate how fortunate we are today. The afikomen, the larger piece of matza, reminds us that we help determine our nation’s future. It was inspiring to see young people taking up the mantle of leadership at YLA Gala, taking responsibility for our peoples’ destiny.

On behalf of the Officers, Board, and staff at ASYV, we wish you and your families a happy, joyous Passover/ Chag Kasher V’Sameach.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly message finds you and your family well.

Excitement is building as we are one month away from A Concert for Sugihara on Wednesday, April 19 at Carnegie Hall. On behalf of the Event Co-Chairs, Abbi Halpern, Mark Mlotek and Peter Till, it’s my pleasure to invite you to this special concert.

I share with you excerpts from a JTA story that just broke this week about the inspiration behind this event: “For most of his life, Chiune Sugihara received little recognition for the dramatic actions he undertook as Japanese vice-consul to Lithuania on the eve of World War II: the rescue of some 6,000 Jews from Poland and elsewhere from the Nazi death machine.

For decades, the Jewish world remained largely ignorant of his heroism. In 1985, when Yad Vashem honored the unassuming retired diplomat as a Righteous Among the Nations, Sugihara was too old and sick to travel to Jerusalem to accept the award. He died shortly after. But his renown has grown in the years since his death, and now Sugihara is being celebrated in a new way with an extraordinary piece of music composed to commemorate his heroic actions.

Kristina Reiko Cooper, renowned Japanese-American-Israeli cellist, will perform this original piece of music — Lera Auerbach’s Symphony No. 6, Vessels of Light — accompanied by the New York City Opera Orchestra and Chorus, conducted by Constantine Orbelian. The gala concert, organized by Yad Vashem and the American Society for Yad Vashem, which commissioned the piece, will pay tribute to Sugihara’s legacy.

The inspiration for this project was Kristina’s husband’s father, Irving Rosen, who was one of the Jews whose lives was saved by Sugihara’s actions. Armed with papers enabling Rosen’s family to leave Lithuania and emigrate to Curaçao via Japan, the entire family traveled via the Trans-Siberian Railway from Vilnius to Moscow to Vladivostok, then by sea to Japan — and eventually to Shanghai.

Kristina became obsessed with this story—one that brings together her Japanese and Jewish heritages, and wanted people to know about it, especially given everything that’s going on in the world with the rise of authoritarian governments, mass dislocations, refugees, wars, rising antisemitism and anti-Asian hate”.

The evening’s master of ceremonies will be Zalmen Mlotek, who is artistic director of the National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene, himself a second generation descendent of a Sugihara survivor. A special guest will be Nobuki Sugihara, Chiune Sugihara’s son. A brief, but important element of the evening will be a candle lighting ceremony to commemorate Holocaust Remembrance Day/Yom Hashoah, which takes place on April 18. It is sure to be a moving and meaningful program. Tickets and sponsorships are available here. You will not want to miss an inspiring evening and the opportunity to pay tribute to a man that made a difference. To whet your appetite, you can see a short performance by Kristina at a recent event at the Japan Society.

Thank you for your continued interest and support. If you have questions, need information or would like to become a sponsor of A Concert for Sugihara, please contact Amy Cooper at acooper@yadvahsemusa.org or 646.970.4959.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this week’s update finds you and your family well.

This week’s Torah portion, Vayakhel, which we read along with Pekudei, tells of the Jewish people’s enthusiastic response to the call for donations of materials for the construction of the Tabernacle/Mishkan.

This week, ASYV is experiencing that same enthusiasm around three different programs. On Tuesday, ASYV partnered with the Japan Society to present a program featuring renowned cellist, Kristina Reiko Cooper, the visionary behind the upcoming Concert for Sugihara on April 19 at Carnegie Hall. The program allowed ASYV to share its mission with a new audience and for us to learn how much we have in common with Japan and its culture. The warmth and interest shown was quite incredible. Kristina dazzled the audience with a beautiful musical presentation and whet the appetite of everyone present for April 19. (be sure to use discount code SUG39816 when you get your tickets at https://www.carnegiehall.org/calendar/2023/04/19/a-concert-for-sugihara-0700pm).

Last night, our Southeast Region held the first live taping of Lessons from our Parents featuring Dr. Julio Frank, President of the University of Miami and Dr. Felica Knaul, Director, Institute for Advanced Study of the Americas, University of Miami in conversation with journalist and podcaster, Haley Draznin Leibowitz. The husband and wife team are both the children of Holocaust survivors. The program will be part of next season’s Lessons series and filming live added new energy to the discussion.

This coming Sunday, the 25^th Annual Arfa Education Conference will take place in New York City. To date, we have over 200 registrants, including virtual participants from Canada, China, India, Israel, Italy, New Zealand, Pakistan, Romania, Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.

It’s encouraging to see so many people from different walks of life interested in learning about the Holocaust. In these challenging times, we need to offer as many opportunities in as many different formats as we can for people to learn and reflect on the lessons of the Holocaust and its relevance today. Thanks to your continued enthusiastic support, ASYV and Yad Vashem offers a varied and robust menu of programs—and we are always thinking of new ones.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly message finds you and your family well.

In this week’s Torah portion, Ki Tissa, we read the famous episode of Moses breaking the tablets containing the Ten Commandments after witnessing the Golden Calf. Upon seeing the people dancing about their idol, he breaks the tablets, destroys the golden calf, and has the primary offenders put to death. The Israelites end up receiving a second set of tablets, but the episode is never forgotten. The broken tablets get placed in the holy Ark along with a second, intact set.

Rabbi Aaron Goldscheider, founding director of the In Our Hearts Project at Aish writes, “After a painful loss, life continues, but now differently than before. We move through life now with two sets of tablets. There are times of joy; there are very happy times. They are encased in the same box; in the same heart.” No one who has ever lost a loved one is unbroken. That brokenness itself becomes essential to who we become going forward.

The analogy Rabbi Goldscheider uses exemplifies our survivors. The broken and the whole, side by side, always. He relates a story of a gentleman, himself elderly, whose father was shot during a death march in the last days of the war, and who was never found to be buried. The man had come to what was then Palestine as a teenager, married, had a child, and spent his career serving in the Israeli Army. He lived a meaningful, thoughtful, and full life. But, he shared, “there . . . was never a day in my life that I didn’t see and think of my father’s bitter end.” There are so many survivors all around us, who have suffered such losses and who live their lives with two compartments – side by side, as symbolized by the two sets of tablets.

Forget–never. Rather, we must seek a healthy way to merge the broken with the whole, the painful with the hopeful. There can be no future without a past. This is core to Yad Vashem’s work. Everything it does—from education to research and documentation to commemoration is seen through this lens. Your support makes it possible. Thank you for your interest and understanding.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you and your family well. Sadly, it has been a difficult week in Israel. The murders of brothers Hillel and Yaniv Yagel and that of Elan Ganeles are tragic and heartbreaking. May their memories be for blessings and may the Yagel and Ganeles families know no further sorrow.

In the midst of this sadness, we will be celebrating Purim next Tuesday—a Jewish holiday where we are told to be happy.

Purim commemorates the rescue of the Jews from extermination in Persia in the fifth century BCE. The story is described in the Book of Esther/Megillah. The main character is a wise and beautiful queen, Esther, the wife of the Persian ruler, Achashverosh. At the behest of her uncle, Mordechai, Esther thwarts the murderous plans of Haman, the all-powerful royal minister who planned to murder all the Jews, by exposing his lies and showing the king that Haman was the real threat, not the Jews. Haman dies, and his figure – in Jewish tradition – is one of the symbols of evil and misfortune.

During the Holocaust, one important element of the German occupiers’ anti-Semitic policy was to plan particularly aggressive or humiliating actions during the Jewish holidays. This was calculated to tarnish centuries of tradition and humiliate those for whom it was important. Purim, with its joyful atmosphere and hopeful message, was the “perfect” choice for such activities.

One story illustrates how, inspired by the call to be happy on Purim, inmates spirits’ could be tested, but not be broken. Purim evening 1943 at the Ilia camp in Transylvania was a very difficult one. Conditions were unbearable and spirits were very low; there was no traditional Book of Esther/Megillah to read. Zvi Hershel Weiss, a prisoner at the camp, decided to write a text for the holiday to uplift the mood of his fellow Jews imprisoned alongside him. Known for his sense of humor and his love of joking around, Zvi Hershel hand wrote a text in Yiddish, combining the story in the Book of Esther with the story of the inmates. He read the manuscript accompanied by music, and that is how they celebrated Purim. In August 1944, the Weiss family was liberated and immigrated to Israel. Just recently, Shmuel Yitzhak Weiss, Zvi Hershel’s son, donated the manuscript to Yad Vashem as part of the Gathering the Fragments campaign to preserve the memory and what it signifies.

Unfortunately, there are still Hamans today who rear their ugly heads. Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik, z’l, notes that one should not be so naïve to think that hatred does not exist in the world, or that those who hate can be convinced to love. One cannot reason with evil, one must destroy it. You, through your continued support, help ensure Yad Vashem and ASYV can share the stories of the past and guarantee the lessons remain relevant.

Wishing you and your families and happy, safe Purim and Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you and your loved ones well.

This week, we mark the beginning of the Jewish month of Adar. It is interesting to note that the first commandment G-d gives the Jewish people as a whole is to acknowledge the New Month/Rosh Chodesh (Exodus 12:2-3). The Jewish nation was told while still in Egypt that the month of Nissan, the month in which they would be leaving Egypt, should be for their first month, and that from then on, they as a nation, have a responsibility to count the months and create a Jewish calendar based on the lunar year.

This seems like an odd first commandment for a new nation. One would think the development of the calendar would only come after the establishment of fundamentals like the Ten Commandments. Why does the Torah consider establishing a calendar a foundation for creating a nation? And, why a lunar calendar when everyone else is using a solar one?

The answer lies in the fact that a lunar calendar is placed squarely in human hands. For example, if the moon were to appear on a Monday, but no one actually saw it until Tuesday, a court would likely decide, “seeing is believing,” and rule that the first of the month was on a Tuesday. As a result, G-d, as it were, follows the decision of the court.

In fact, G-d is empowering the Jewish people with this first commandment. Up until now, the Jews have been slaves to the Egyptians.  Their time was not their own.  Now, says G-d, you are becoming masters of your time.  And not only of your own time, but of my time as well.  During the Shoah, removing control over our time was one more way the Nazis tried to dehumanize us.  Because owning our system of measuring time and creating our own calendar, is what enables us to take charge of shaping our own reality.”

While we are empowered to shape our futures, we must also be vested in remembering the past. That is ASYV’s raison d’etre—to remember and also to educate—to ensure the atrocities of the Holocaust never happen again. To that end, we have a busy month ahead of us with programs meant to teach and engage:

• Thursday, March 2, 7 PM: The Holocaust Revisited: What We Know, Don’t Know and Need to Know 70 Years Later with Dr. Stephen Berk, Union College, Temple Sinai, North Miami Beach, FL.
• Thursday, March 16, 7 PM Lessons from Our Parents featuring: Dr. Julio Frenk and Dr. Felicia Knaul in conversation with Haley Draznin Leibowitz, Skylake Synagogue, North Miami Beach, FL
• Sunday, March 19, 25^th Annual Barbara G. Arfa Conference on Holocaust Education: From Documentation to Social Media: Empowering Students to Analyze (Mis)Information with special guest, Michael Berenbaum, Ramaz School, New York City
• Thursday, March 30, 7 PM Young Leadership Associates Gala, Prince George Ballroom, New York City

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. We could not do it without you.

Shabbat shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this message finds you well. This week’s Torah portion, Mishpatim, contains one of the most famous phrases in the Torah, “we will do and we will hear/na’aseh venishma “(Ex. 24:7). A modern reading suggests that na’aseh venishma can be interpreted as, “We will do and we will understand,” suggesting that one can only understand Judaism by doing it, by performing the commandments and living a Jewish life. Only after doing comes the insight and the comprehension.

“To do and to understand” beautifully encapsulates the vision of renowned cellist, Kristina Reiko Cooper, when she conceived of the idea to create a musical piece to honor Chiune Sugihara, the Japanese Vice Consul to Lithuania during WWII who saved the lives of some 6000 Jews. The piece is a way to pay tribute to both her Japanese and Jewish heritages through the medium she knows best—music. She writes:

I first conceived the vision of a grand musical project commemorating the life of Chiune Sugihara when I learned of the incredible story of this righteous and humble Japanese man. It was a profound realization to know that were it not for his heroic actions of saving thousands through his transit visas against the orders of his government, my husband and three beautiful children would never have existed. My husband’s father, Irving Rosen, was the recipient of Sugihara’s visa #1628, which ensured his survival. Thus, from the ashes and horror of the Holocaust, he was able to build a new family and life. . .

It has been my dream, and now, incredibly, a reality, to bring this project to fruition through Lera Auerbach’s amazing and beautiful musical score and to celebrate the preciousness of life by shining light on an ultimately very simple act of Chiune Sugihara. May his actions continue to inspire us all.

I hope you will join us at A Concert for Sugihara on Wednesday, April 19, 7 PM at Carnegie Hall in New York City for the U.S. premiere of Lera Auerbach’s Symphony No. 6, “Vessel of Light,” performed by Kristina along with the New York City Opera Orchestra and Chorus with Constantine Orbelian conducting. Tickets are available at the Carnegie Hall website. We are proud to offer friends of ASYV a special discount code: SUG39816. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For more information on sponsorships or the concert, please contact Amy Cooper at acooper@yadvashemusa.org or 646.970.4959.

As always, thank you for your continued interest and support.

Shabbat shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this finds you well. This week’s Torah portion, Jethro/Yitro, is one of the shortest, yet most important, as we receive the Ten Commandments from G-d. Earlier in the portion, Moses’ father-in-law, Jethro/Yitro, for whom the portion is named, observes that Moses spends all day settling disputes between the people and asks Moses why he does so. Moses, replies, “Because the people come to me to seek G-d. I decide between man and his neighbor and make known the laws of G-d.” Understanding that was not sustainable, Jethro/Yitro suggests that Moses set up a justice system where Moses is G-d’s representative, but that others could serve to decide simpler disputes. Moses agrees and sets up such a structure.

However, when it comes time to receive the Ten Commandments, Moses is no longer the sole representative. All the Israelites are instructed to be present to hear G-d give the commandments and to be responsible for observing them–laws that guide the individual and society. We are all now empowered to act and be accountable.

It is often said that the Nazis could not have succeeded without the support of the citizenry—tacit or otherwise. As Elie Wiesel said, ‘Evil triumphs when good people do nothing.” With antisemitism, Holocaust distortion and trivialization on the rise, we must all be empowered to act—to stand up and stand out when we see it. My hope is that ASYV is a dynamic resource for you to learn about our past, understand what was lost and provide the means to strengthen your efforts to ensure nothing like the Shoah can ever happen again.

Thank you for your interest and support. It has never been more vital.

Shabbat shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this e-mail finds you and your family well.

Last week ended on a sad note as a Palestinian terrorist shattered the peacefulness of Shabbat when he shot and killed seven people and wounded at least three others near a synagogue in Jerusalem. How ironic that this outrage occurred as the world was commemorating International Holocaust Remembrance Day. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families.

As this week was ending, I suddenly realized that on Monday we will celebrate Jewish Arbor Day, Tu B’ Shevat. It gave me pause to think how this minor holiday was celebrated during the dark days of the Shoah.

Thanks to the Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center in Cincinnati, I learned the following story that took place in the Terezin Ghetto.

Overcrowding, hunger, disease, and despair dictated daily life; deportations were a constant reality. Yet, amid this, volunteer teachers devoted themselves to providing meaningful and even joyful moments for the children and families by continuing educational and cultural activities. Zionist youth movement leaders inspired and taught the vastly secular audience about pride in their own Jewish identity. As such, efforts to retain their humanity were continuously conceived – from arts to newspapers to opera.

Irma Lauscher was one of the volunteer teachers from the Terezin, sharing her love and appreciation for Jewish traditions and holidays. In January 1943, Irma decided to lift the spirits of the children by organizing a celebration of the ancestral holiday of Tu B’Shevat. She bribed one of the Czech guards to smuggle a tree sapling into the ghetto, carried inside his boot and nurtured to life by the children imprisoned there. She organized a ceremony of dancing and singing with the children of the ghetto, and together they planted the tree, sharing their water rations. The children nurtured their tree, wrote poetry about it, and were inspired by it. They called it the Tree of Life, Etz Hayim.

Of the 15,000 children who were imprisoned in Terezin, only 150 survived. After the war, Ela Weissberger was among the handful of children who returned and found the tree still alive. They carefully transplanted the tree next to the crematorium and dedicated a headstone with the prophetic words of Isaiah: As the days of a tree shall be the days of my people!

A poem was written and dedicated to this Tree of Life, Etz Hayim, which grew to be over 60 feet tall:

I returned home here to Theresienstadt.

I stand guard here on this rise of this hill

by this tree that moves slightly

as it creaks the names of the children

slowly to me.. every night.

We watch over this place. This tree and I.

We watch over the children of Theresienstadt.

We still hear their songs.

Shhh-hh-h.. do you hear?

 Thanks to your valued support, ASYV continues to cultivate the Tree of Life, Etz Hayim, by ensuring that the memory of Holocaust victims will not be forgotten, and that people of all ages continue to learn the stories and lessons of the Shoah.

May this Shabbat be a truly peaceful one for our people and a happy Tu B’Shevat,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you well.

In this week’s Torah portion, Bo (13:8), we read for the first time a phrase that is a cornerstone of Judaism and fulfilled daily with the recitation of the Shema–“And you shall tell your child …” This is a key principle of Judaism—the commandment to learn and to remember.

A core value of ASYV is to provide opportunities for meaningful Holocaust remembrance. Today is International Holocaust Remembrance Day. It was designated by  the United Nations General Assembly in 2005 following a special UN session marking the 60th anniversary of the liberation of the Nazi concentration camps and the end of the Holocaust.

During the Holocaust, the Nazis endeavored to obliterate the identity of every Jewish man, woman, and child. Since the 1950s, Yad Vashem has worked tirelessly to gather and restore the names of the six million Jews murdered during that time. To date, they have identified some 4.8M names and memorialized them in The Book of Names of Holocaust Victims. Each victim’s name, date of birth, hometown and place of death is listed on meter-high pages and illuminated by a gentle strip of light that lies between each page. The monumental size of the book attests to the collective, immeasurable loss to the entire Jewish people, and to humanity. The blank pages of the book’s final volume symbolize the names still to be identified, recorded, and memorialized, in perpetuity, by Yad Vashem.

Thanks to the generosity of Marilyn & Barry Rubenstein and family, Yad Vashem will dedicate The Book of Names at the United Nations Headquarters for International Holocaust Remembrance Day. It will be on display for the public through February 17, before being brought back to Yad Vashem in Israel where it will be on permanent display beginning April 2023.

In line with our mission, ASYV has been working with several corporations as part of their Diversity & Inclusion programs to bring Holocaust remembrance and education to a broader audience. This week—and in the weeks to come, Ernst & Young, Ralph Lauren, Spotify, Palantir and Tapestry have welcomed us. If you are interested in having ASYV plan a program at your company, please contact Amy Cooper, our National Campaign Director, to facilitate this. She can be reached at acooper@yadvashemusa.org or 646.970.4959.

Thank you for your support, which ensures we continue to fulfill the commandment to remember and to tell all our children.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this email finds you well.  Next Friday, the world will commemorate the Shoah on International Holocaust Remembrance Day (IHRD). The day was designated in November 2005 by a UN resolution as it marked the 60th anniversary of the liberation of Nazi concentration camps and the end of the Holocaust. Countries around the world choose themes and mark the day with ceremonies and remembrances.

The theme for Holocaust Memorial Day 2023 in the United Kingdom is “Ordinary People.” It is based upon the idea that ordinary people both facilitated and were victims of the Holocaust.  At best, ordinary people turned a blind eye to the Nazis; at worst, they joined the murderous regime.  The Jews were ordinary people who were murdered for no other reason than they were Jewish.  And then, there were ordinary people who risked their lives to save Jews simply because it was the right thing to do.

In this week’s Torah portion, Vaeira, G-d commands  Moses and Aaron to return to Pharaoh and reiterates the demand that he release the Jewish people.  This time, G-d instructs them to prove to Pharaoh that G-d has sent them by performing a miracle–Aaron would throw his staff on the ground and it would turn into a serpent.

Rav Menachem Mendel Hager of the Vizhnitz Hasidic dynasty explains the significance of this wonder.  In Pirkei Avot (1:12), Aaron is famously described as a kind, sensitive person, a “lover of peace and pursuer of peace. . ..” He was an ordinary man who never instigated conflict or treated people with hostility.  The Rav suggests that his staff turning into a serpent – a symbol of evil, hatred and violence – represents how Pharaoh viewed good people as evil.

“Ordinary People” reinforces the notion that we are all essentially the same and that there but for the grace of G-d go any of us.  It also reminds us that we all have agency— the capacity to influence our own thoughts and behavior and to have faith in our ability to handle a wide range of situations.

Moreover, in Vaiera, we learn that we must be careful before “turning” our fellow man into a “serpent.”  We are to do just the opposite – to strive to see and appreciate all that is good in others and to magnify their admirable qualities, rather than searching for ways to criticize and malign.

As we commemorate International Holocaust Remembrance Day next week, we are grateful that you have chosen to engage with us and to support our work ensuring the lessons of the Holocaust remain relevant and resonant.

If you find yourself in New York in the next couple of weeks, I encourage you to visit the United Nations to see Yad Vashem’s newly dedicated Book of Names exhibition, which is on display there through February 17th.

Thank you and Shabbat Shalom,

Shabbat shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you and your loved ones well.

“There are Hitlers loose in America today, both in high and low places… As the tensions and bewilderment of economic problems become more severe, history(‘s) scapegoats, the Jews, will be joined by new scapegoats, the Negroes. The Hitlers will seek to divert people’s minds and turn their frustration and anger to the helpless, to the outnumbered. Then whether the Negro and Jew shall live in peace will depend upon how firmly they resist, how effectively they reach the minds of the decent Americans to halt this deadly diversion.”

These words were spoken by Rev Dr. Martin Luther King, May 14, 1958, in  an address to the National Biennial Convention of the American Jewish Congress. Dr. King was addressing “Anti-Semitism and Racism in America at that time. Unfortunately, as reported by the ADL, 2023 will see a continued increase of an old kind of hate that has been very visible lately. High-profile entertainers and athletes have openly spouted antisemitic tropes. Even political leaders have made disturbing comments and participated in or supported unacceptable events. And beyond these headlines, there has been a steady rise over the past five years in the number of hateful incidents directed at Jewish individuals and Jewish communities at large.

Elie Wiesel, someone who experienced one of the darkest periods in human history, dedicated his life to ensuring that the horror imposed upon Jews under the Nazi regime was never forgotten, and who championed the cause of human dignity, said the following: “Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented. Sometimes we must interfere. When human lives are endangered, when human dignity is in jeopardy, national borders and sensitivities become irrelevant. Wherever men or women are persecuted because of their race, religion, or political views, that place must—at that moment—become the center of the universe.”

Rabbi Dr. Saul Berman extended the Torah stipulation of “lifnei iver” (not placing a stumbling block before the blind) to mean that Jews are forbidden from aiding and abetting others in the commission of wrongdoing. In this sense, enabling a social evil constitutes a violation of this prohibition. Likewise, the obligation of Jews to deliver “tochacha” (rebuke) means we are obligated to morally improve both Jewish and non-Jewish societies.

Next week we will have the opportunity to honor, celebrate and remember Rev Dr. Martin Luther King. He dedicated his life to championing racial equality and to stamping out hatred. The work ASYV does daily in Holocaust remembrance, is first and foremost dedicated to remembering that the Holocaust was primarily directed at the Jews. However, as both Dr. King and Elie Wiesel reminded us, we have an obligation to never stand idly by when confronting hate.

This week, we note with sadness the second anniversary of the passing of Sheldon Adelson, z”l. Mr. Adelson was a leader along with his wife Dr. Miriam Adelson in supporting vital Jewish causes. He was a champion in supporting Holocaust remembrance and education. May his memory be a blessing.

Thank you for your continued support.

Shabbat shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

This week the Jewish world commemorated the 10th of Tevet, one of the many sad dates in the Jewish calendar. The date commemorates the beginning of the siege and eventual destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem. It is one of four biblical fast days observed by Jews for centuries.

After the tragedy of the Holocaust, the Jewish people and the State of Israel searched for an appropriate date and method to give expression to their grief and memorialize the innocent victims of this unprecedented slaughter. That date is the 27 of Nissan, Holocaust Remembrance Day/Yom HaShoah, which marks the beginning of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising of 1943, when Jewish resistance fighters defied the Nazis and fought for freedom and dignity. The observance includes the sounding of a siren, a moment of silence, special memorial programs, somber music and serious programming on the radio and television.

The rabbinate of Israel sought to commemorate the tragedy in a different, more traditional manner. They set aside the 10th of Tevet as a day of memorial with the universal recitation of Kaddish in memory of the six million victims of the Holocaust.

In Jewish history and tradition, great events are commemorated within a religious context; often tragedies are marked and remembered by fasting. One of the great challenges of modern Jewry is how to commemorate the enormous events that have occurred to us in the last century. How is the memory of the victims of the Holocaust to be sanctified? In our time, when a great section of the Jewish people no longer sees itself bound by traditional religious norms and the generation of the Holocaust falls to the attrition of time, the difficulty of commemorating the Holocaust meaningfully to new generations of Jews increases.

In 1979, Congress designated April 28–29, the anniversary of the American liberation of the Dachau concentration camp in 1945, as Days of Remembrance of Victims of the Holocaust. The dates were deliberate as there was American significance. Many countries, especially in Europe, commemorated the Holocaust on January 27, the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, the largest Nazi death camp in 1945. In 2005 the United Nations designated the date as an annual remembrance for Holocaust victims.

As the generation of the Holocaust survivors pass on, the challenge of commemorating the Holocaust in a meaningful way to new generations of Jews and society at large increases. We have an obligation to ensure Jewish memory and that the world at large will never forget. Thank you for your support and for enabling ASYV to advocate and advance meaningful Holocaust remembrance.

Shabbat shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this email finds you and your family well.

As we close 2022, I want to thank you for your help in making the past year a successful one at ASYV. We had a record campaign as our donors recognized the importance of reminding the world what can happen when good people do nothing. And it’s not only about the dollars raised. As Covid restrictions eased, we were able to come together at various outreach and fundraising events around the country, connecting us around a common cause. With rising antisemitism and growing Holocaust distortion and trivialization, every single donor makes a strong statement—that we have not forgotten the past and must keep the lessons of the Holocaust in front of us.

Thank you for being a part of ASYV. You embody Anne Frank’s message that “nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.” A meaningful gift of any size makes a statement of support for our work. If you haven’t yet made a gift, please consider joining us now. You can donate here.

Wishing you all the best in 2023.

Shabbat shalom,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this weekly update finds you and your families well.

This week’s Torah portion Miketz, tells the story of Joseph’s sudden rise to the position of vizier in Egypt, a position whose paramount duty was to supervise the running of the country. After languishing in prison for thirteen years, Joseph was brought before Pharaoh to interpret the king’s dreams. Impressed by Joseph’s interpretation, Pharoah names him as the kingdom’s second-in-command.

The Midrash (Midrash Aggada, cited in Torah Sheleima to Bereishit 49:23, #309) relates that when Pharaoh appointed Joseph to the post, he came under criticism from Joseph’s former master, Potifar. Potifar asked Pharaoh how he could turn his slave into a member of the royal class. The Midrash tells that Joseph himself defended his right to kingship, noting that he was a descendant of royalty– his great grandparents were Abraham and Sarah.

The Midrash’s depiction of Joseph’s confrontation with Potifar perhaps underscores Joseph’s ability to retain his sense of pride, dignity, and self-worth even when subjected to shame and degradation. Joseph never forgot who he was – a descendant and heir to the spiritual legacy of the patriarchs and matriarchs–a member of G-d’s “royal” family.

How appropriate that this Torah portion often falls around the holiday of Chanukah. Chanukah commemorates the Jewish people recalling their culture and identity and the subsequent rededication of the Second Temple. We have witnessed many oppressive regimes throughout our history, none more devastating than the Holocaust. Joseph, Chanukah and the Midrash all teach us that we must never let anybody, or any situation, define who we are.

There were two stories in the news this week that reinforce this message.

One appeared in the Times of Israel about an Oscar-qualifying short film featuring a heroic young WWII partisan whose violin became a symbol of resistance. Its young owner, Motale Schlein, survived a deportation at 11 years old by hiding in an attic, only to die tragically at 14 when his partisan group came under heavy fire from Nazi forces. Schlein’s violin survived the war and is on display in the permanent museum exhibition at Yad Vashem in Jerusalem—and still played. It is an inspiring story which ASYV featured at our virtual Gala last year. You can see the clip here.

Another story appeared in the New York Times about the famous photo taken by Rebbetzin Rachel Posner in Kiel, Germany. In 1931, she took a photo of a menorah on her windowsill juxtaposed with the Nazi swastika flag hanging menacingly on the party’s regional headquarters. On its back, she wrote: “The flag says ‘death to Judaism,’ the light says ‘Judaism will live forever.“ That menorah was used this week in Germany in a candle lighting ceremony in the presence of German president Frank-Walter Steinmeier and the Posner grandchildren. The Menorah is on permanent display at Yad Vashem, except for Chanukah, when it is returned to the family to use.

Thank you for being a part of ASYV, enabling us to be a voice that reminds the world of the stories of the Holocaust and that despite the dire history, we are a part of a precious and proud legacy.

If you have not yet made your 2022 gift, please consider doing so before the end of the year. Thank you to all who already have. Enjoy the last days of Chanukah and happy holidays to all.

 Shabbat Shalom and Happy Chanukah,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director

Dear ASYV Family,

I hope this e-mail finds you and your family well.

With the disheartening rise in antisemitism today, I want to bring to your attention an incredibly interesting and comprehensive online course, Antisemitism: From Its Origins to the Present, which explores this virus, from its roots to its contemporary forms.

Yad Vashem brought together 50 leading scholars from all over the world to explore questions and issues relating to antisemitism including: What is antisemitism? How has it changed throughout history? Why can it be found among so many diverse cultures, and even among opposing ideologies? What happened to antisemitism after the Holocaust? How is antisemitism expressed today, and what are the main spheres in which it can be found? Yad Vashem believes the best antidote to combat this scourge is education. There is no better time than now to learn about the perils of this targeted hatred.

Antisemitism: From Its Origins to the Present, can be found via the Yad Vashem website.

Thank you for your continued interest and generous support. Your participation in our work matters.

Shabbat Shalom and Happy Chanukah,

Stanley H. Stone

Executive Director