Groundbreaking for Holocaust Education Center in Phoenix

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Design concept for the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center.

News Summary

Phoenix officials have broken ground on Arizona’s first Holocaust education center, the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center, set to open in April 2027. The 30,000-square-foot facility will serve as a museum and educational space, aiming to combat antisemitism and promote understanding of the Holocaust. The center will feature immersive exhibits and programs aligning with Arizona’s education requirements, drawing over 50,000 visitors annually. Supported by significant funding, the center seeks to provide free access for public school students, ensuring future generations learn vital lessons against hatred.

Phoenix

Officials in Phoenix have officially broken ground on Arizona’s first Holocaust education center, named the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center. The center is set to open its doors in April 2027, aiming to promote understanding of the Holocaust and inspire advocates for a future devoid of antisemitism, hatred, and bigotry.

The new facility will be located near the intersection of I-10 and Central Avenue, situated behind the Burton Barr Central Library. The 30,000-square-foot center will function both as a museum and an educational space, focusing on ensuring that vital lessons from the Holocaust are taught to future generations.

During the groundbreaking ceremony, Holocaust survivors including Clara Grossman and Herbert Marx shared personal stories, emphasizing the urgency of combatting the rise of Holocaust denial and antisemitism. Grossman, who was sent to Auschwitz during World War II, highlighted the significance of personal testimonies in educating others about the damaging effects of hate.

The building aims to address the growing issue of antisemitism by focusing on education, especially among middle and high school students. The initiative is expected to attract over 50,000 visitors annually, including students and community members, and will offer in-depth programming that aligns with the Arizona State Board of Education’s requirement for Holocaust education at least twice during secondary schooling, a rule change enacted in 2020.

The project has been spearheaded by the Arizona Jewish Historical Society, which will also assist in the development of a curriculum regarding the Holocaust for public schools in Maricopa County. Additionally, funding for the center has been largely supported by over $35 million in commitments toward a goal of $40 million. This includes $2 million allocated by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors through the Community Solutions Funding initiative.

The center will contain immersive exhibits, survivor testimonies, and various educational programming aimed at promoting social justice and understanding against hate. Plans feature dedicated galleries focusing on Jewish life and temporary exhibits that will showcase important aspects of Holocaust history and its implications in today’s society.

The construction of the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center is projected to take approximately two years. Contributions toward the center are still being accepted, which will allow public school students to visit the facility at no cost, ensuring that these critical lessons reach as many young people as possible.

This educational initiative is not just about preserving the history of the Holocaust; it focuses on fostering a long-lasting impact that encourages future generations to stand against hatred and injustice. With increasing concerns surrounding the rise of antisemitism, the establishment of this dedicated space for education is seen as both timely and necessary.

Once completed, the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center will stand as a testament to the importance of understanding history, embracing diversity, and advocating for tolerance and acceptance in society.