Museum Launches 2017 First Person, Conversations With Survivors Series

WASHINGTON, DC – The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum announced the schedule for the 2017 season of its moving “First Person, Conversations with Survivors” series. First Person enables visitors to hear Holocaust survivors tell their life stories in their own words, uniting personal experience with history in a way that is extraordinary in its immediacy and power. Each hour-long program features a live interview between journalist Bill Benson or on some occasions, a Museum staff member, and a survivor, followed by a question-and-answer session. The series begins at 11 a.m. on March 15 and will be held every Wednesday and Thursday through August 10 at the Museum. 

“This program provides a unique opportunity for visitors to put a human face on the events of the Holocaust,” said Diane Saltzman, Director of Survivor Affairs at the Museum. “As the survivor community decreases each year, the importance of this program increases. The personal connection forged at this event ensures that the experience of these survivors has a lasting impact.”

The program kicks off on March 15 with a conversation with Fanny Aizenberg, a Museum volunteer and survivor who recently celebrated her 100th birthday. Select programs in April and May will be streamed live on the Museum’s web site.

“Hearing a Holocaust survivor speak is such a meaningful and unique experience” continues Saltzman. “We encourage everyone, but especially young people and educators to take advantage of the programs that are available online.”

Media interested in attending any of the programs should contact Kristy Buechner at kbuechner@ushmm.org or at 202.314.1754.

This year’s season of “First Person” is made possible by generous support from the Louis Franklin Smith Foundation with additional funding from the Arlene and Daniel Fisher Foundation

A living memorial to the Holocaust, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum inspires citizens and leaders worldwide to confront hatred, prevent genocide, and promote human dignity. Its far-reaching educational programs and global impact are made possible by generous donors. For more information, visit www.ushmm.org.

Related Links

• First Person, Conversations with Holocaust Survivors

• Museum Survivor Volunteers

• Office of Survivor Affairs