Americans and the Holocaust
The Civic Center Library is hosting a series of programs in conjunction with the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum’s traveling exhibit Americans and the Holocaust (on display in the Civic Center Atrium December 4, 2025-January 13, 2026). For more information about the exhibit or questions about programs contact the Civic Center Library at (586) 751-0770.
Opening Program
Americans and the Holocaust
Thursday, December 11, 2025, 6:00 pm
All ages
Join us for the opening of Americans and the Holocaust, a traveling exhibition from the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. This exhibit examines how Americans responded to the rise of Nazism, the refugee crisis, and the Holocaust. Through photographs, newspapers, government documents, and personal stories, visitors will explore the complex realities of American society during this period and consider the lessons it holds for us today. The library’s reception will feature remarks by Dr. Miriam Eve Mora from Raoul Wallenberg Institute, University of Michigan and a special opportunity to tour the exhibition. Light refreshments will be served, and all ages are welcome.
Program Schedule
Book Discussion: White Bird
Saturday, December 6, 2025, 2:30 pm
Teens (ages 12-18)
Join us to discuss the book White Bird by R.J. Palacio. Participants will receive a copy of the book to keep. Please pick it up before the program so you can join in the discussion.
Exploring Americans and the Holocaust
Monday, December 8, 2025, 6:00 pm
Join us for a special program with Harry Smith from the Zekelman Holocaust Center. He will introduce the Americans and the Holocaust exhibit, share its central themes, and provide important context to help connect the past to the present. After his talk, Harry will answer questions and lead a conversation with attendees.
Truth Sleuths: Uncovering Holocaust History
Thursday, December 11, 2025, 5:30 pm
Teens (ages 12-18)
Become a history detective in this interactive program exploring how newspapers reported (or overlooked) key events during the Holocaust. Compare historical headlines to modern memes and misinformation, and view clips from Behind Every Name to connect the past to powerful survivor stories.
Second Generation Speaker from the Zekelman Holocaust Center
Friday, December 12, 2025, 6:00 pm
This special, after hours program features Sandy Silver, a second generation Holocaust survivor. She will share her family’s story and reflect on the lasting impact of the Holocaust across generations. Through personal testimony and historical context, the presentation highlights the importance of remembrance and the responsibility of carrying these stories forward.
Henry Ford, Father Coughlin, and the Rise of Antisemitism
Tuesday, December 16, 2025, 6:00 pm
Harry Smith returns to examine Michigan’s historical role in spreading antisemitic ideology and how local narratives tie into national history and the exhibition’s themes.
Film Screening: Casablanca
Tuesday, December 30, 2025, 6:00 pm
Join us for a screening of the 1942 classic film Casablanca. A discussion after will explore wartime moral choices, refugee issues, and how the film reflected American attitudes toward WWII.
Film Screening: The U.S. and the Holocaust
Monday, January 5, 2026, 6:00 pm
We will screen a 45-minute version of the 2022 documentary film series The U.S. and the Holocaust by Ken Burns, Lynn Novick, and Sarah Botstein. This film explores the American response to the Holocaust from the 1930s through the end of World War II and was partially inspired by the Americans and the Holocaust exhibition at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. A discussion will follow the screening.
Book Discussion: In the Garden of Beasts
Tuesday, January 6, 2026, 6:00 pm
Join us for a community discussion of Erik Larson’s book about the U.S. ambassador to Hitler’s Germany and the moral complexities of early Nazi-era diplomacy. Books will be available for check out in December.
Teacher Education Workshop for Teachers and Educations
Thursday, January 8, 2026, 6:00 pm
For more information, please call the Civic Center Library at 586.751.0770.
Americans and the Holocaust: A Traveling Exhibition for Libraries is made possible by the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the American Library Association.
