By Boca Vibe
A Beacon of Remembrance Rises in Boca: FAU’s Wallach Holocaust and Jewish Studies Building Breaks Ground
Hey Boca Raton neighbors! Big news happening right here in our backyard. Florida Atlantic University (FAU) just broke ground on a truly remarkable project: the Barry and Florence Friedberg Lifelong Learning Center, home to the newly named Lorraine and Jack N. Friedman Commission for Jewish Education, part of the Kristallnacht Center for Jewish Studies, renamed the Wallach Holocaust and Jewish Studies Building. That’s a mouthful, I know! But trust me, this building is more than just bricks and mortar; it’s a symbol of hope, remembrance, and a commitment to education that will resonate throughout our community and beyond.
This isn’t just another academic building; it’s a testament to the power of learning, the importance of remembering the past, and the vital role education plays in building a more tolerant and understanding future. For Boca Raton, a city with a vibrant Jewish community, this building is particularly significant. It’s a local landmark that will enrich our city’s cultural tapestry and strengthen our community bonds.
Why This Building Matters to Boca Raton
Let’s face it, Boca is more than just beaches and golf courses (although we love those too!). We’re a diverse and dynamic community, and the Wallach Holocaust and Jewish Studies Building reflects that. Located right here in our city, it offers a place for everyone – students, residents, visitors – to learn about the Holocaust, Jewish history and culture, and the importance of fighting prejudice and hatred in all its forms. This isn’t just an FAU initiative; it’s a community resource that will foster dialogue, understanding, and empathy.
Imagine strolling through Mizner Park and then heading over to this state-of-the-art facility for a lecture, a film screening, or a community event. Imagine your children having access to world-class resources and scholars right here at home, learning about the importance of tolerance and the dangers of indifference. This building will be a hub for learning and engagement, a place where history comes alive and inspires us to build a better future.
More Than Just a Building: A Center for Community and Connection
This new building is more than just classrooms and offices. It’s designed to be a vibrant center for community engagement, offering a wide range of programs and activities for people of all ages and backgrounds. Think:
* **Interactive exhibits:** Imagine experiencing history firsthand through immersive exhibits that bring the stories of Holocaust survivors to life. * **Film screenings and discussions:** Engaging with powerful documentaries and films, followed by thought-provoking discussions led by experts. * **Lectures and workshops:** Hearing from renowned scholars and authors on topics ranging from Jewish history and culture to contemporary issues of antisemitism and social justice. * **Community events:** Celebrating Jewish holidays and cultural traditions, fostering a sense of belonging and shared heritage. * **Research opportunities:** Providing students and faculty with access to cutting-edge resources and opportunities to contribute to the field of Holocaust and Jewish studies.
### A Local Legacy: The Impact on Boca Raton’s Future
The Wallach Holocaust and Jewish Studies Building isn’t just a building; it’s an investment in our community’s future. It will:
* **Enhance educational opportunities:** Providing students with access to a world-class education in Holocaust and Jewish studies, preparing them to be informed and engaged citizens. * **Promote interfaith dialogue:** Creating a space for people of different faiths to come together, learn from one another, and build bridges of understanding. * **Combat antisemitism and hate:** Educating the next generation about the dangers of intolerance and empowering them to stand up against prejudice. * **Preserve the memory of the Holocaust:** Ensuring that the stories of the victims are never forgotten and that the lessons of the past are never repeated. * **Enrich Boca Raton’s cultural landscape:** Adding another dimension to our city’s vibrant arts and culture scene, attracting visitors and scholars from around the world.
### What This Means for You: Getting Involved
This project is a testament to the power of philanthropy and community support. The Friedberg family’s generosity, along with the contributions of numerous other donors, has made this dream a reality. But the work doesn’t stop here. There are many ways for you to get involved and support this important initiative:
* **Attend events:** Check the FAU website and local community calendars for upcoming events at the Wallach Holocaust and Jewish Studies Building. * **Volunteer your time:** Share your skills and passion by volunteering to help with programs and events. * **Make a donation:** Contribute to the ongoing support and growth of the center. * **Spread the word:** Tell your friends, family, and neighbors about this exciting new resource in our community.
Looking Ahead: A Brighter Future for Boca Raton
The groundbreaking ceremony for the Wallach Holocaust and Jewish Studies Building marks a significant milestone for Boca Raton. It’s a symbol of our community’s commitment to education, remembrance, and building a more tolerant and inclusive future. As this magnificent building rises on FAU’s campus, it will serve as a beacon of hope, inspiring us all to learn from the past and work towards a brighter tomorrow. Let’s embrace this opportunity to engage with this important institution and make it a true center of learning and community for generations to come. So, the next time you’re exploring our beautiful city, make a point to visit the Wallach Holocaust and Jewish Studies Building. It’s a place where history comes alive, and hope takes root, right here in our own Boca Raton.