Holocaust to be examined in Surprise programs

Nelson G. Mitchell, public relations and marketing coordinator for the Maricopa County Library District, submitted this information.

During the 1933-1945 reign of terror of Nazi leader Adolph Hitler, it is estimated that 6 million Jews were systematically executed during the Holocaust. The horrific, genocidal murder continues to beg examination and reflection more than six decades later.

For three evenings, Tuesday through Thursday of this week, a thought-provoking look at Nazi imprisonment is being presented at the Maricopa County Library District Northwest Regional Library, 16809 N. Bullard Ave., Surprise The multi-layered program, "In Their Own Words: Holocaust Survivors Probe the Inconceivable," offers rare insight into the victims' treacherous journeys toward survival. Attendees will be invited to review terminology, place the historical timeline in context, analyze a film, and discuss the realities of imprisonment, persecution, and mass murder.

Tuesday's introductory session examines the events that led to the Holocaust, the global impact of these events, and the individuals and families living in that world. The timeline provides a framework for thinking about the conflicting political philosophies and social issues.

An award-winning documentary film, Kitty-Return to Auschwitz, will be presented Wednesday. The film chronicles the physical and emotional journey taken by Kitty Hart and her son 34 years after her imprisonment.

On the final day of the seminar, Thursday, Holocaust survivors Abe and Lillie Meth will share personal narratives about their ordeal during imprisonment. They will also moderate a discussion of the audience's responses to their experiences, and entertain questions about the documentary film presented the day before.

The program runs from 7:30-8:30 p.m Tuesday, 6:45-8:45 p.m. Wednesday, and 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday. Attendance at all three nights of the program is recommended to grasp the full impact of the experiences of the survivors.

The recommended age for seminar participants is 12 and older. The program is cosponsored by Surprise Community & Recreation Services. Info: 602-652-3000.