Winners of the ADC’s inaugural Elie Wiesel Essay Competition were announced and celebrated at a special awards ceremony held last week. The contest, which drew numerous entries from private and public schools, asked year 10 students to write about “What the enduring legacy of Elie Wiesel teaches us about the importance of remembering the Holocaust today and about never being a bystander when confronted with injustice.” Honourable Mentions certificates and gifts were also given. The panel of judges was chaired by AJN National Editor Zeddy Lawrence.
The recipients are:
First Prize- Liat Fichman
Second Prize- Barr Donde
Third Prize- Bailey Epstein
Dr. Dvir Abramovich, Chairman of the ADC, praised the outstanding achievements of all entrants, and said:
“In launching this exciting initiative as a tribute to Elie Wiesel, we hoped that it would provoke serious conversations about issues such as confronting hatred, the dangers of indifference, and how young people can carry the timeless lessons of the history’s darkest chapter into their civic and communal lives. We could not be prouder of The 2017 participants, whose inspiring contributions perfectly embody Wiesel’s call for young adults to reflect on how they, as thoughtful and ethical citizens, can prevent future atrocities from ever happening again, and ensuring that the legacy of the Holocaust endures forever.”
AJN National Editor Zeddy Lawrence said:
“What an honour and, indeed, education it was to read the astute submissions for the Anti-Defamation Commission’s essay competition, each one in its own way encapsulating the lessons we learn from Wiesel and expressing just how relevant they are today in a world beset by bigotry and intolerance. How heartening and encouraging, moreover, that they found expression in the thoughts and reflections of younger members of our community, who recognise that the Holocaust endured by Wiesel and of which they have no personal experience, is not merely a chapter in history, but a transcendent experience that challenges humanity for all time.”
For further information please contact Dr Dvir Abramovich on 9272 5677.