Who is a Jew? Amiens, France, 1940-1945

“Who is a Jew? Amiens, France, 1940-1945”

A set of photo identification cards of Jews from Amiens, France is now on display in Temple Emanuel’s “Thou Art” Gallery (near the Pollon Family Library). This new exhibit, “Who is a Jew?” is the product of historian David Rosenberg’s research.

As a member of the Adult Education/beit Hamidrash committee, Dr. Rosenberg — who is also a long-time Temple member with his wife Davant — offered to create this exhibit, which explores how French Jews self-identified when forced to register during the Nazi occupation of World War II. His research provides a chilling glimpse into the past and a reminder of a time in history that must never again repeat.

Speaking about the exhibition, Dr. Rosenberg says, “The lessons of the Shoah are important for Jews and non-Jews alike. This research has led to some hopeful developments abroad, including the dedication last October of a commemorative plaque by the city authorities of Amiens at the site of the WWII-era synagogue.”

Stop by Temple anytime during normal business hours to view the exhibit or call ahead to arrange a guided tour for three or more people.

Read more about the exhibit in the Jewish Chronicle. There’s even an article in German that’s mostly based on the Chronicle piece.