I grew up hearing the stories, reading the books, and seeing movies about the Holocaust that saw 6 million Jews and millions of Gypsies, homosexuals, the mentally disabled, and other human beings die at the hands of those who organized genocide during World War II. The world did not expect such a systematic killing of people, yet genocides have happened since and continue today in places such as Darfur in the Sudan.

So when I was given the opportunity to go on a program called March of the Living with an organization called BJE Los Angeles, I went. I went so I could see first-hand evidence of the Nazi destruction. I went to hear the personal stories of seven survivors of the Holocaust. I went to chaperone more than 160 brave teenagers (many of whom I have taught in my classrooms) who wanted to see and learn and never forget. I went to celebrate that life goes on and to solidify my belief that we must educate ourselves and teach others the imperative of respecting life for all human beings. I went for my children, who will inherit a world I must try — in whatever small ways — to make better.

If you are inclined to know more about the March of the Living, please click to an article I co-wrote that explains some of an unforgettable experience.