Tennessee Day of Holocaust Rememberance

Posted by on Wednesday, April 17, 2013 in News.

On Monday, April 8th, the annual Tennessee Holocaust Day of Remembrance, was commemorated at Legislative Plaza. Hosted by the Tennessee Holocaust Commission, a packed room of guests listened to readings, remembrance and recognition of Tennessee teachers who strive to make the Holocaust a part of their curriculum for students.

This year’s theme, Never Again: Heeding The Warning Signs, included the recitation of the traditional Jewish prayer of remembrance for those who died, and reflections from Tennessee students. The Tennessee Holocaust Commission also recognized the winners of the 2013 Belz-Lipman Holocaust Educator of the Year Award.

Anita Puckett, DeKalb Middle School, Smithville, TN
Julie Kinder, Robertsville Middle School, Oak Ridge, TN
Noelle Smith, South Greene High School, Greeneville, TN
Rebecca Hasselle, Dyersburg Middle School, Dyersburg, TN

Images from the “Living On” exhibit were on display in the main hallway of the State Legislature from April 8-12, 2013. The ceremony and exhibit were open to the public.

With the lighting of six candles at the State Capitol, dozens of people pledged not to forget those who died during the horrors of the Holocaust — one million for each candle in the room. It attracted a handful of Holocaust survivors and their relatives.

Participants recited traditional Jewish prayers and sang a series of songs in honor of the millions who died and countless others affected by the Holocaust. The Women’s Choir Vox Grata gave a beautiful performance with vioces filling the chamber. High school and college students from across the state, including some from Middle Tennessee State University, shared their reflections.