HHRC’s 40th Anniversary
As we think back at HHRC’s incredible growth in the last 38 years, we feel an outpouring of gratitude for the thousands of people who helped this organization to thrive. What began as a seminar at Bowdoin College in 1984 has become a force for joyful work and hopeful change. In classrooms, at the stunning Klahr Center, in the communities we help create and conversations we facilitate, we aspire to bring light and hope by speaking out against racism and prejudice and for the human rights of all people. HHRC has become a presence in Maine. As we think about how to celebrate its first 40 years, we intend to be both thoughtful and aspirational, commemorative and forward-thinking. If you have any ideas on how to celebrate, please let us know.
Our Mission
The mission of the Holocaust and Human Rights Center of Maine is to promote universal respect for human rights through outreach and education. Using the lessons of the Holocaust and other events, past and present, we encourage individuals and communities to reflect and act upon their moral responsibilities to confront prejudice, intolerance and discrimination.
Our Vision & Work
The work to achieve our aspirational vision is fueled by the talents and passions of many people committed to spreading knowledge, teaching students, creating community, celebrating survivors, and opening up opportunities for people of all ages, races, religions and backgrounds.
There are twelve fully developed educational programs offered to school free of charge. All of them can be customized to age group, subject and grade level, or reconfigured to align with a class or project. Middle and high schools across Maine have participated in our programs, some for one session, others for more extensive learning. Adult programs are offered to organizations, community groups, senior colleges and universities. Our educators are collaborating with MDOE to develop age-appropriate, online curricula. The stunning Michael Klahr Center displays permanent and rotating exhibits, hosts events, and welcomes visitors for tours and presentations.
This year we hosted a Distinguished Lecture Series featuring writers and scholars to explore aspects of Jewish history and the Holocaust: Silvia Foti, Anne Knowles and James Richter. We are thrilled to participate in the Violins of Hope visit to Maine next October with an exhibit at the Center, a presentation by the project’s overseer, and a special concert by the Portland Symphony Orchestra.