It has travelled to more than 60 countries, and now the exhibition entitled “Anne Frank – A History for Today” will be arriving in Campbell River.
Anne Frank was a young Jewish girl who had to go into hiding during World War II in an attempt to escape the Nazis. Her diary from that time remains a vivid record of the impacts of historical events on one person’s life.
Seventy years after her death, Anne Frank’s short life still resonates strongly with people, especially with youth. This exhibit aims to create a dialogue with young people about topics such as the dangers of discrimination. Local high school teacher Steve Joyce first approached the Museum about bringing this exhibit to Campbell River.
“I was lucky to find in the Campbell River Museum the amazing support to bring Anne’s story to Campbell River,” says Joyce. “The Museum has been able to connect it to our community through the stories of those who served in WWII fighting the very evil that created the Holocaust. The stories of Campbell River men who served, and in some cases paid the ultimate sacrifice, to liberate Europe will reside alongside Anne’s personal story.”
Local students from the Outdoor Adventure Program at Timberline Secondary will be trained as volunteer guides to explain the exhibit to their peers. Students have cited numerous benefits they hope to gain from their experience with this exhibit, ranging from gaining an in depth knowledge of this period in history, to increased confidence in public speaking.
The exhibit, which includes content on Canadian History during the Second World War, is presented in both English and French. It is being shown in collaboration with Anne Frank House, Steve Joyce from School District 72, and the Museum at Campbell River. There is a documentary film entitled “The Short Life of Anne Frank” that will be shown as part of the exhibit.
The opening reception will be held on Tuesday Oct. 13 from 4:30-6 p.m. and the public is encouraged to attend. The exhibit can be viewed from Oct. 13 until Nov. 15 at the Museum at Campbell River. To arrange a school tour, or for more information, call the Museum at 250-287-3103.