The sophomore class has the rare and meaningful opportunity to hear first-hand from a survivor of the Holocaust. The Holocaust was a tragic event during World War II in which millions of people, primarily Jews, were systematically persecuted and killed by the Nazi regime.
What do they hope to learn or understand better by hearing directly from a Holocaust survivor?
Sophomore Nicholas Quiroz, a member of our SALTT and Purple Hearts Clubs is looking forward to listening to the speaker.
“I want to understand what it truly felt like to live through those experiences—not just what others say, but the real emotions and memories the survivor carries, including whether those moments still feel vivid or impactful today,” he said.
Lauren Beird, who is part of the SALTT and Girl Up Club, has always been interested in World War ll, and can’t wait for the opportunity to listen to what happened from a person who experienced it first-hand.
“I’m totally buzzing with excitement for the Holocaust survivor to come speak at our school. It’s like having history come alive right in front of us. I can’t wait to hear their story straight from the source. This is going to be unforgettable,” she imagined.
Basketball star Michael Lopez is also anticipating to learn more about the struggles of what happened. Although it was a very sad event, Lopez is pleased he will get the chance to listen to a person who encountered it face to face.
“I hope to understand what it was really like to live through the Holocaust and learn how the survivor found the strength to keep going. Hearing their story will make history feel more real and help me see why it’s so important to stand up against hate,” he explained.
Sophomores at ILS are preparing themselves learning prior knowledge in their social studies classes to fully appreciate this rare chance to hear such a powerful history from an actual survivor. Listening to a Holocaust survivor many hope will help them better understand the past and the importance of standing up against injustice today.
