Commonpoint Queens commemorated Kristallnacht with the opening of the photo exhibition “Resilience” on Nov. 9 at the Sam Field Center in Little Neck. The exhibit features portraits and words about the resilience of Holocaust survivors.
Holocaust survivors were among the over 150 people in attendance for the exhibit’s opening. Many were joined by their family and friends, as well as staff and community members.
“We are so thankful to all of the survivors for being giving of their time and participating in this project,” Commonpoint Queens CEO Danielle Ellman said. “Especially with the current rise in antisemitism, we thank you for retelling your story and reliving your trauma so we don’t forget the atrocities of the Holocaust for many generations.”
The photos in the exhibition depict what resilience has meant to the survivors from personal experiences during the Holocaust as well as throughout their lives. There are also written words offering advice and wisdom about the power of resilience, aimed at the next generation.
The Resilience exhibition is a special program through the Commonpoint Queens Resilience Program for Holocaust Survivors. This program also includes personal concierge services for survivors, social programs, referrals to community services, assistance with reparations, home deliveries from the Commonpoint Queens kosher food pantry, assistance with advance care planning, emergency financial assistance, supportive counseling services and community events.
“My experiences during the Holocaust enabled me to face and deal with whatever situations developed during my lifetime,” said Anita, one of the Holocaust survivors at the event. “Surviving the Holocaust strengthened me to overcome life’s challenges. Resilience to me is being able to cope with whatever life throws at me!”
Viewing of the exhibition for the general public can only be made by appointment from 10 a.m. to noon on Monday through Friday. Those interested in making an appointment can call Beth Taboh at 718-225-6750 ext. 212 or via email at btaboh@commonpointqueens.org. Groups are encouraged to make an appointment and attend.
People interested in learning more about the Resilience Program as well as upcoming events should contact Aron Katayev at 718-225-6750 x211 or AKatayev@CommonPointQueens.org.
