Reflections From A Grandson Of Holocaust Survivors: A Personal Journey

I am the grandson and son of Holocaust survivors who fled across Europe with the sound of German guns in the distance. My family’s story is woven with the threads of history, tragedy, and resilience. While they managed to escape Belgium on the back of a pickup truck, many members of my extended family were not so fortunate. They met horrific fates in places like Tarnow and Rava Ruska, Poland, where they were shot, suffocated in gas chambers, or worked to death in brutal labor camps. Some stories have been passed down through generations, but many have been lost, just as the Nazis intended.

Growing up, I was enveloped in narratives about the war, listening to survivors recount their harrowing experiences. These conversations spurred me to write a book set during the Holocaust, a project that required months of deep research into the darkest corners of human history. It became my mission to help the world understand the profound meaning that can emerge from senseless murder and boundless cruelty.

In my pursuit of truth and justice, I joined the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, where I dedicate my efforts to sharing these poignant stories online. My goal is to raise awareness and foster understanding about the Holocaust, ensuring that the lessons learned from this dark chapter in history are not forgotten.

After I left the museum, I married a Holocaust historian. This union has deepened my understanding and commitment to combating antisemitism and ensuring that the horrors of the past are never repeated. Despite living in a world that sometimes feels perilous, I find solace in the belief that another Holocaust is unlikely under a returned President Donald Trump. The Holocaust stands as a unique event in history, a stark reminder of the depths of human cruelty and the importance of vigilance.

However, it is crucial to acknowledge that antisemitism has not vanished. It remains a potent force, wielded by those seeking power. My family history is a testament to this reality; my grandfather, born in the United States to a family that fled from Belarus due to severe persecution, changed our family name from Finkelstein to Fields, a decision made under the weight of antisemitism that permeated society at the time.

My grandfather's achievements in Queens during the mid-20th century are noteworthy; he was a talented athlete and a respected lawyer who mingled with prominent figures of his era. Yet, even in his success, the shadow of his past and the collective trauma of our ancestors loomed large. This complex legacy shapes my perspective on the current political landscape and the voices that echo from our history.

As we navigate the present, it is essential to remain aware of the rhetoric used by leaders and the implications it has on communities, particularly those of marginalized backgrounds. The lessons learned from the Holocaust compel us to stand against hate in all forms. Through remembrance and education, we can honor those who suffered and work towards a future free from such atrocities.