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.
We help young people understand the consequences of prejudice and stereotyping. We encourage students to explore their biases, to think about the way words can divide and threaten—or heal and unite. We invite honest conversation about dark times in history with the hope of creating a brighter future from learning, reflecting and practicing. We build brave communities.
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.
The stunning Michael Klahr Center curates thoughtful exhibits by Maine artists, archival objects, sculpture, and Holocaust survivors’ portraits and audio stories. In this cultural center we hosts performances, presentations and special events. Each weekday we welcome visitors to explore and enjoy this wonderful resource.