Zikaron BaSalon is a tradition started in 2011 – a new way to commemorate the Holocaust. It passes the torch from official ceremonies and mass assemblies to more intimate, meaningful and inspirational gatherings, taking place every year in thousands of private living rooms and public settings.
Every Zikaron BaSalon event is different, just like every living room looks different. But in the end, we all shape and create the way we remember the Holocaust and the valuable lessons we’ve learned from it.
“After all the guests left, I sat in the living room and tried to take it all in. There was something special and intimate about this evening, an extraordinary human encounter. People just didn’t want to leave, and even weeks afterwards I was still getting messages from guests telling me what a great experience they had and how much they are looking forward to my Zikaron BaSalon next year.”
Host
Every year I speak at a Zikaron BaSalon and every year it is very meaningful for me. It is not easy but meeting with the participants provide new meaning. This year I joined a hybrid event and shared my testimony on Zoom. At first, I was worried, but it was a unique and moving experience. I also managed to learn a few things from the youngsters on the call.
Holocaust survivor
There is something therapeutic for me in sharing my parents' story. As a second generation, my story is not just my parents' story but very much my own. I believe it is our duty to continue sharing the testimonies, but for me, Zikaron BaSalon is also a way to feel closer to my parents. Second generation
Second generation
“I can't recall the last time I took an active part in a fundamental conversation about the Holocaust. I was thrilled to find out that I was not the only one with questions to ask. All of my friends want to gather together again next year. My personal feelings over the course of the evening ranged between heavy emotion and even happiness at certain times.” Guest
Guest
It is our privilege to hear testimonies from the last generation of Holocaust survivors. Invite them to our homes, listen to their remarkable testimonies, and embrace them for as long as we can. It is our mission to remember, and preserve our families’ stories and heritage. If your family has a story that needs to be told – talk to us.
We can keep these stories alive. Forever.
Everyone can host a Zikaron BaSalon – in your living room with close friends, in the yard with the neighbours, at your office with your colleagues or on Zoom.
Zikaron BaSalon consists of three parts: a testimony by a person, usually a Holocaust survivor or second-generation (may be written or recorded); an expression part where participants may sing, read, act out, or share something important to them; and an open conversation part on a variety of topics related to the memory of the Holocaust.
Absolutely not. Zikaron BaSalon is an open-source initiative in which people shape their own experiences. The structure of the event and the use of the content we provide are only suggestions to make your Zikaron BaSalon event easier to host and organise.
Yes! A family Zikaron BaSalon, personal and intimate. You can use our family host kit.
In the weeks before Holocaust Memorial Day, training sessions are held in the communities and online.
We at Zikaron BaSalon make great efforts to find Holocaust survivors or second-generation who will come and share their stories in your living room. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee it.
We recommend that you ask your friends, acquaintances and neighbours. Almost everyone has a family story, so why look so far?
We invite you to commemorate Holocaust Remembrance Day in the living room, among friends and family, at a gathering of Zikaron BaSalon.
With Assistance from the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany Sponsored by the Foundation Remembrance, Responsibility and Future Supported by the German Federal Ministry of Finance
Done with
Zikaron Basalon, all rights reserved © 2023
