Whalley and West Park Avenues may not be considered a junction, because the corner is officially named “Holocaust Corner.” New Haven’s Holocaust Memorial was the first, in the country, to be built on public land, in 1977. It is a proud affirmation of the city’s attitude and respect for human and moral values. Israel’s Yad Vashem warns us to “teach history lest we be condemned to repeat it.”
The Jewish community gathered Sunday to clean and tend the monument area and to plant 700 daffodil bulbs, anticipating that at least 600 will bloom in time for Yom Hashoah, the official time of holocaust memorial.
The survivors in attendance were deeply touched by the number of people who enthusiastically volunteered to perform these chores, especially by the participation of many teenagers. There was a large contingent from Makom, the Jewish Federation’s after school educational program for high-school students.They were reassured that their efforts to teach and memorialize will be perpetuated.
Young volunteers learn the history and signifigance of the monument and its components from Doris Zelinsky, who has led the initiative to restore and refurbish.
Hyla and Glenna Vine (mother and daughter) volunteer together.
“Andy” Sarkany, a survivor, contributes his skills to the Jewish Federation, where he is a fund-raising executive, and to the day’s efforts.
Doris Zelinsky and Eric Epstein confer on plans and progress.
Lew and Anna Lehrer, Sidney and Libby Glucksman (all four survivors), and Mrs. Willie Rosenberg (widow of a survivor) watch as a street sign is uncovered. Sid and Libby have been recognized with a “corner naming” at Norton and Chapel. They represent the fulfillment of the American Dream to generations of refugees.
Volunteer Lindy Gold and Alderwoman Liz McCormack with Lew Lehrer (seated), Anna Lehrer, and Sid and Libby Glucksman.
State Rep. Pat Dillon joins the group.
Harvey Cohen, former owner of the Cheshire Garden Center, who was on the original monument planning committee and supplied the supervision and the bulbs for the planting.