Politeja (Feb 2021)

An Inclusive Model of Memory Work in Poland: Bridge to Poland as a Case Study

  • Jolanta Ambrosewicz-Jacobs,
  • Leora Tec

DOI
https://doi.org/10.12797/Politeja.18.2021.70.17
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 18, no. 1(70)

Abstract

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The memory of World War II in Poland is sometimes plagued by an us/them mentality or a competition of suffering. This paper will attempt to answer several questions: how are non-Jews contributing to Holocaust memorialization in Poland today? How can recognizing this contribution serve to heal rifts and change deep-seated stereotypes? We will present a case study, based on participant observation, of Bridge To Poland, which emphasizes memory work conducted by non-Jewish Poles. Bridge To Poland’s latest project in conjunction with the Grodzka Gate-NN Theatre Centre, The Neshoma Project: Conversations with Poles Rescuing Jewish Memory, highlights those whom Tec calls “Rescuers of Memory”. Exposing people to their work, Tec believes, results in breaking down negative stereotypes about non-Jewish Poles and building bridges between people.

Keywords