Opened in March 2008, did you know that the Durban Holocaust & Genocide Centre started because the Holocaust became part of the high school curriculum? It’s true. The centre quickly became a landmark for education and culture in Durban.
The Durban Holocaust & Genocide Centre focuses on human rights. It teaches about racism and xenophobia. Over the years, it has gained a reputation as a vital educational resource.
Mike Jackson helped create the centre’s permanent exhibition. He usually made theater props. Linda Bester also contributed her creative genius. She designed the Cape Town Holocaust Centre. Together, they made a world-class facility.
The exhibition includes items looted by the Nazis during Kristallnacht. You will also find stories of Holocaust survivors who settled in Durban. These personal accounts add a powerful layer to the historical facts.
The Durban Holocaust & Genocide Centre teaches more than just dates. It shares the stories behind the facts. Students learn about Anne Frank. They also learn about the genocide in Rwanda. Each year, around 5000 students visit this Durban centre.
The Durban Holocaust & Genocide Centre is not only a Jewish story. It’s about humanity. It shows man’s inhumanity to man. It inspires us to create a better future.
The Durban Holocaust & Genocide Centre includes the Circle Café. It offers delicious food in a peaceful garden. I heard they have the best cheesecake in town.
The Durban Jewish Club is in the same complex. Though separately managed, it shares a common goal with the Durban Holocaust & Genocide Centre. It promotes community and kindness. Founded in 1931, the club has a rich history.
Originally, it started with a dance in 1919. Returning World War I servicemen wanted to connect the older and younger Jewish generations. The dance was a huge success. This led to the formation of The Circle, a literary and music club.
In World War II, the club served as a canteen for His Majesty’s forces. Two million service members used its facilities. People of all faiths and nationalities were welcomed. The club also played a role in the struggle against apartheid.
Today, the Durban Jewish Club hosts many events. These range from launches to team-building activities. It remains a hub for the Jewish community. It’s a place where kindness and charity reach the greater community. The Durban Holocaust & Genocide Centre and the Durban Jewish Club together form a powerful center. They promote education, remembrance and community spirit in Durban.
Remember that the Durban Holocaust & Genocide Centre is open daily. It is closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays. It is dedicated to creating a caring society. The Durban Holocaust & Genocide Centre values human rights and diversity. It teaches about the dangers of prejudice and silence.