Established in 1985, the Simon Wiesenthal Center (SWC) is an international Jewish human rights organization dedicated to preserving the lessons of the Holocaust and fostering tolerance and understanding in today's world. The Museum of Tolerance (MOT) challenges visitors to confront bigotry and racism, to understand the Holocaust in both historic and contemporary contexts, and to assume responsibility for positive change through customized tours, high-tech exhibits, and interactive workshops.

A pilot leadership development program provides a cadre of 40 Jewish high school and 15 college students leadership training to cultivate relationships between Jewish and Latino communities and raise the level of understanding and mutual interest.  Students participate in a two-semester curriculum and afterward conduct outreach projects utilizing Museum resources, exhibits, and the practical wisdom of Jewish leaders.  Course content includes Jewish identity and history, values of tikkun olam, and inter-cultural competency and facilitation skills.  Ultimately Jewish students acquire practical skills to serve as leaders in a diverse world.

In order to ensure the continuity and vitality of the Jewish community, we must engage and educate the next generation of Jewish leaders. Thanks to The Foundation's Cutting Edge Grant, we are now able to reach young Jews, and prepare them to represent our Jewish values in this diverse world.

 

Rabbi Meyer H. May, Executive Director, Simon Wiesenthal Center and Museum of Tolerance