A new exhibit at the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) “Auschwitz. Not so long ago. Not so far away.” Examines the history and legacy of Germany's largest concentration camp.
According to the ROM, this is the exhibit's only Canadian stop on an international tour.
“I think for some it's going to be a very emotional experience,” said Josh Bacaches, the museum's director and CEO.
“Toronto has a large community of Holocaust survivors, their children and grandchildren, as well as people from all walks of life who have experienced horrific events in many parts of the world,” he said.
“It is not only an experience of the mind but also an experience of the heart.”
The ROM says it is one of the most comprehensive exhibits ever presented on the Holocaust and includes survivor testimonials, historical documents and first-hand accounts by liberators.
It also displays more than 500 original objects – many of which have never been seen before in Canada – on loan from the Auschwitz Memorial and more than 20 other major institutions and private collections around the world.
“As we move on from the Holocaust, it's easy to think of it as a thing of the past, but it's so important to understand the way prejudice and various forms of racism can fuel hatred, violence, and how it disrupts it.” Basech said.
“Auschwitz, not long ago, not far away.” Opens January 10 — 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz on January 27. The exhibition runs until September 1.
