USC Shoah Foundation Commends Congress on Passage of Holocaust Education Bill

Thu, 05/14/2020 - 7:46pm

Visit Echoes & Reflections for comprehensive programming and resources about the Holocaust especially designed for educators so they can gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence to teach this topic effectively.

On January 27, 2020, the bipartisan bill passed in the House with nearly unanimous support. Today, it passed the senate with complete support and is now on its way for the president's signature.

"Holocaust and genocide education is one of the key tools we have in countering antisemitism and hate in all forms. Today, demonstrating a commitment to teaching the next generation about the Holocaust could not be more important or more timely,"  said Stephen D. Smith, Finci-Viterbi Executive Director of USC Shoah Foundation and UNESCO Chair on Genocide Education.

Funding from this bill will support the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in developing and expanding its programming and reach to educators throughout the country with digital educational resources.

"Especially today, as millions of school-aged learners find themselves at home, direct access to expertly curated, age-appropriate content on the Holocaust and other genocides is of critical importance. Giving teachers the tools they need to find new ways to engage their students and make this history come to life is how we pledge to support this important legislation,” said Claudia Wiedeman, Director of Education, USC Shoah Foundation.