Students from Galileo recently participated in a meaningful visit to the Montreal Holocaust Museum. Through the support and funding provided by the Federation CJA, Tanya Lo Bianco’s Sociovocational Integration (SVI) program and Marilyn Damato’s Academic French/English class, had the opportunity to explore an important chapter of history. Students listened to testimonies, viewed historical artifacts, and participated in guided discussions, deepening their understanding of the past.
The museum, which preserves over 13,500 artifacts from Holocaust survivors who settled in Canada, offered students a powerful look at the resilience of those who lived through one of the darkest periods in history. Montreal is home to the third-largest Holocaust survivor community in the world, making this visit especially relevant to understanding the impact of history on our own city. Through interactive exhibits, students explored themes of human rights, tolerance, and combating discrimination, drawing connections between past events and present-day issues. The experience sparked meaningful discussions in the classroom, reinforcing the importance of remembrance and learning from history to build a more inclusive society. Galileo extends its gratitude to the Montreal Holocaust Museum for providing this educational and thought-provoking experience. Students left with a deeper appreciation for the lessons of the past and the role they play in shaping the future.
Sarah Reingewirtz was the volunteer guide for the school. “It was my pleasure to be the guide for a group of students who toured the Montreal Holocaust Museum,” she wrote. “I congratulate you on these attentive, polite, informed, and engaged students. The tall young men even allowed their shorter peers to walk or sit in front to them. Bravo. They are all a credit to their teacher. The students demonstrated an impressive breadth and understanding of world history, the Holocaust, and the psychology of hatred. They asked pertinent questions, were patient as we covered many of the artifacts, and gave the exhibits, some of them distressing, the respect deserved. Not all students are a treat to guide.
“At a time when antisemitism has again reared its ugly head and hatred has increased round the world, Galileo named for a brave and brilliant individual, is to be lauded and applauded. Your school is worthy of bearing Galileo’s name. Thank you for doing your share in bringing up such fine young men and women. They will surely help improve our world.”
