D-E recently hosted assemblies honoring Jewish Heritage Month across divisions. In the Lower School (LS), fifth-grade presenters revealed facts about the Jewish population around the world, and then students who identify as Jewish took turns sharing their own families’ immigration stories and traditions they enjoy during holidays such as Passover, Hannukah, and Purim. In the Upper School, leaders of JADE, the Jewish student affinity group, hosted a guest speaker representing the educational nonprofit 3GNY, founded by the grandchildren of Holocaust survivors with the mission of preserving the legacies and lessons of the Holocaust. Alex Levine recounted the stories of his grandparents Edward and Cecile Mosberg, from Krakow, Poland, who endured personal devastation due to atrocities committed by the Nazis. These heart-breaking stories included moments of personal sacrifice, survivors’ guilt, and, ultimately, resilience following unimaginable trauma. Alex concluded his presentation with a sentiment that, especially amid a rise in antisemitism, it is essential to never forget this history. “The hate that starts with Jews never ends with Jews,” he said. During a Q&A with students in the audience, Alex urged people to “continue to stand up against hate and injustice.” JADE subsequently organized a Lunch & Learn event for those interested in continuing the conversation with Alex. We’re grateful to JADE and 3GNY for shining a light on Jewish heritage.
