Youngstown State University welcomed American-Israeli scholar, guide, and historian Avi Ben-Hur for a discussion on Holocaust education. The event, titled Never Again, was sponsored by YSU’s Center for Judaic and Holocaust Studies in collaboration with the Youngstown Area Jewish Federation. Held at McKay Auditorium in Beeghly Hall, the program was open to the public.
Ben-Hurat, who works with Classrooms Without Borders in Pittsburgh, has dedicated 28 years to studying and teaching Jewish heritage and Holocaust history. His presentation explored the complexities of introducing Holocaust education to young students, addressing concerns about age-appropriateness and emotional impact.
“There’s always the question of whether a child is mature enough and if discussing such a difficult history too early could have unintended effects,” Ben-Hurat explained.
Despite these challenges, he emphasized the importance of Holocaust education, drawing connections between historical lessons and present-day issues.
“If you look at the world today, some aspects bear resemblance to the 1930s and the interwar period. Many societies have become so polarized that political opponents are now seen as ‘the other.’ History has shown us the consequences of dehumanization,” he said.
The event provided attendees with valuable insights into the role of Holocaust education in fostering historical awareness and critical thinking.
