Gila Herald Staff Reports
SAFFORD — The Safford City–Graham County Library invites the community to explore a powerful piece of history this week by hosting an official opening reception for the prestigious traveling exhibition, Americans and the Holocaust.
The opening reception is scheduled for this Thursday, Nov. 5, starting at 5:30 p.m. at the library, located at 808 S. 7th Avenue.
Brought to Safford through a partnership with the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the American Library Association, the exhibition examines the motives, pressures, and fears that shaped Americans’ responses to Nazism, refugees, war, and genocide during the 1930s and 1940s. Safford is one of a select group of public and academic libraries nationwide chosen to host the multi-week display.
Thursday evening’s kickoff event will feature guided exhibition tours, light refreshments, and a special guest presentation by Dr. Ettie Zilber, who will set the stage for the history explored within the display. Dr. Zilber experienced the lasting impact of her parents’ experiences during and after the Holocaust. Her presentation explores her journey as a member of the second generation and the importance of preserving, documenting, and sharing the stories of the Holocaust survivors and their families.
Organizers note that the exhibition challenges visitors to look beyond the general timeline of World War II and ask deeper questions about individual responsibility, community action, and how ordinary citizens reacted to humanitarian crises—prompting visitors to consider not only what people did back then, but what they would do themselves.
The exhibition will remain open for public viewing and tours at the library through Dec. 4. Community members of all ages are encouraged to attend Thursday’s opening reception and take advantage of this unique educational opportunity.
