Holocaust Memorial Day

Holocaust Memorial Day is intended as an inclusive commemoration of all the individuals and communities who suffered as a result of the Holocaust - not only Jews, but also Gypsies, Slavs, homosexuals, political prisoners and dozens of ethnic and other minorities.

Jack Straw

Erosion

The Holocaust also shows us how a combination of events and attitudes can erode a society's democratic values.

Tim Holden

When it's over

If we bear all this suffering and if there are still Jews left, when it is over, then Jews, instead of being doomed, will be held up as an example.

Anne Frank

Welcome!

The David and Joan Thaler Education Trust was established in 1995 by Dr. David and John Thaler to provide support for education about the Holocaust to residents and students at the local colleges and high schools in Linn County Iowa. We sponsor Holocaust survivors and other speakers to participate in public lectures, we support classroom education and work with school curriculum leaders as a source for materials and/or speakers, and we sponsor arts events, authors, exhibits and more.

2027 SPEAKER EVENT • TBD
2026 SPEAKER EVENT

Dr. Alex Kor

April 2026

Trauma. Survival. Torment. Forgiveness. Healing.

 

Dr. Alex Kor shared the extraordinary survival stories of his parents, Eva and Mickey Kor, as well as the lessons of their lives: resilience and the power of forgiveness.

 

Forgiveness of Nazis may not be a concept associated with those who experienced the horrors of the Holocaust, yet Eva Kor did just that. It was not easy. Dr. Kor finds his mother’s ability to forgive to be one of the most striking aspects of her life.

Kirkwood Community College

Coe College

Cornell College

Dr. Kor was also delighted to speak at three area high schools.

 

 

Our History, Planning board list, general information about the Holocaust, Events and items we have sponsored

Learn about past guests, with links to media, their books, and other items of interest. Find out about upcoming community events.

Read the storied local Survivors, local folks in the military during WWII, and those affected.

A list of museums and other websites that have information for students and teachers. Some sites have online lesson plans, documents, videos and more.

Send an email or snail mail to us, we are happy to hear from you!

Gifts to the Thaler Holocasut Education Trust allow us to continue our mission of remembering the impact of the Holocaust.