The World Jewish Congress' #WeRemember campaign for International Holocaust Remembrance Day in 2023 marked a milestone in global remembrance and education efforts. In partnership with UNESCO, this initiative not only commemorated the Holocaust's victims but also stood as a bulwark against the rising tide of antisemitism and hate.
Video messages from survivors worldwide form the core of the social media campaign. Numerous physical displays of remembrance around the globe also were also central to the effort.
Global Collaboration and Remembrance
Kicking off a week before January 27, the campaign manifested in an array of global initiatives, demonstrating the power of collaboration across continents.
Notably, in Berlin, the Reichstag building, a symbol of Germany’s complex history and resilience, prominently displayed the #WeRemember slogan. This gesture was mirrored across the country in major cities by prominent Bundesliga football clubs, including FC Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund, amplifying the message.
Israel participated actively, with Jerusalem’s Old City showcasing powerful images of Holocaust survivors and Tel Aviv's Azrieli Center illuminated with the hashtag. New York City, with its significant Jewish community, saw key buildings, including City Hall and Freedom, lit up in yellow. Mayor Eric Adams and Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine played pivotal roles in these commemorations. NYC Link display boards also contained images with facts about the Holocaust.
Additional displays appeared across Canada, Latin America and European capitals including Athens, Stockholm, Prague, and Zagreb.
Partnerships with International Institutions and Sports Entities
The campaign's reach extended to influential global entities. NATO headquarters in Brussels held a special remembrance ceremony in collaboration with the World Jewish Congress. In addition, the European Commission, European Parliament, and various federal ministries in Germany participated, signifying the political and social commitment to Holocaust remembrance.
Significant support also came from the sporting world. Israeli teams such as Maccabi Tel Aviv BC and Maccabi Haifa FC joined hands with the entirety of the leagues in Germany, Argentina, and Brazil, thereby reaching millions and transcending cultural barriers.
Educational Endeavors and Digital Engagement
Central to the campaign were efforts to educate and inform. Collaborations with Meta and TikTok ensured that users were directed to accurate Holocaust information through AboutHolocaust.org. This initiative was crucial in combating misinformation and Holocaust denial online.
Auschwitz-Birkenau: A Poignant Conclusion
The campaign culminated at Auschwitz-Birkenau, the former Nazi death camp. Here, photographs of participants were displayed, symbolizing the enduring legacy of Jewish survival and resilience.
Legacy and Future Outlook
The #WeRemember campaign has evolved into a significant movement, fostering global dialogue and understanding about the Holocaust. Its success lies in its comprehensive approach, engaging educational platforms, sports entities, political institutions, and the general public.
As the World Jewish Congress forges ahead, the enduring message of the #WeRemember campaign is clear: vigilance against hatred and bigotry is essential. This initiative serves as a reminder of the collective power of memory in shaping a more empathetic and informed world.
To learn more about the Holocaust and the #WeRemember campaign, visit www.aboutholocaust.org.
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