Tarbut is planning a series of cultural events related to books and the written word for this year’s European Days of Jewish Culture! Here’s our encounter with Peninah Zilberman, Founder & CEO of Tarbut about these events and the 80th Anniversary of the Bergen Belsen Liberation Ceremonies.
Jguideeurope: Which events will be organized at the EDJC?
Peninah Zilberman: This year’s theme of European Days of Jewish Culture is “People of the Book,” as referred to the Jewish People, the Book-Tanach-Bible-Old Testament… The Bible has served for centuries as a guide, for Jews and non-Jews.
Presenting this theme brings opportunities for learning about the three various parts of the Bible- Narrative about our ancestors, Prophets, and Writings. The Bible is the oldest form of literature, poetry, and fiction. Tarbut is planning a series of cultural events related to Books and the written word.
Tarbut’s Holocaust over 100 + volume library will be donated to the Sighet Central Library. The books will be set in a special visible location.
One of Tarbut’s missions is to translate Hebrew & English books to the Romanian language, since the historical memoirs and fiction books written during the Communist era were censored; therefore, facts, data and information are distorted. The books Tarbut makes available to the Romanian reader find an accurate narrative.
We will be launching two books, during the fall season, one related to the Women in Transnistria Camp and the second about Jewish life right after the Holocaust in Romania during the Communist regime. The story of the Ovitz Family, second edition, is about to be published – that is an incredibly special honor.
We look forward to sharing many happy and remarkable moments with members of Maramures Region students and the people of the various communities.
How are Tarbut’s projects evolving?
Tarbut’s programs revolve around the Romanian and Jewish anniversaries & commemoration dates. Romania’s Holocaust observance is on October 9, Sighet deportations anniversary are May 16-22. As well, we mark the Holocaust International Remembrance Day, January 27 at all high schools, either f2f or via Zoom.
Furthermore, we offer cultural programs planned with Grade 11 high school students, tailor-made as per teachers’ requests. Tarbut always welcomes innovative ideas and initiatives.
Can you tell us about the 80th Anniversary of the Bergen Belsen Liberation Ceremonies at which you participated?
The camp’s liberation has been a traumatic experience for the liberators, survivors, and for us family members who attend the special anniversaries. My mother and her sister were liberated on April 15, 1945, in Bergen Belsen, Germany. It was a day she never believed will happen- but the British & Canadian soldiers, liberated Bergen Belsen.
Even though I visited Bergen Belsen three times prior to the Anniversary events, I decided I would attend the special ceremonies. I am pleased I did; I met people deported from North Transylvania Region- Romania, the same as my mother. The visit provided me with a closer insight into my mother’s story of survival, especially that I went to Sweden right after the anniversary ceremonies, where she and her sister recovered following liberation for three years.
Do you feel that cultural events and conferences help fight the rise of antisemitism in Europe?
I personally feel that all organizations, foundations, and individuals who provide cultural programs, contribute to the fight against antisemitism, due to the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. Antisemitism has always been bubbling and fermenting, however since October 7, 2023, and all that has followed since, it has brought up a lot of misunderstandings and accusations against the State of Israel, without having the historical knowledge. Therefore, all programs provided at any stage or platform must be praised and encouraged.
Having a yearly theme brings many facets of the Jewish Heritage to the attention of the general audience in each geographical location we offer these cultural programs. May it be lectures, films, book launches, exhibits, plays etc., reaching all individuals’ interests. Never stop nor limit the number of cultural presentations, the more, the better…