Contemporary Testimony in Education & Research: Understanding Antisemitism Through Witness Voices | USC Shoah Foundation

Contemporary testimony offers a powerful lens for understanding antisemitism, resilience, and the human impact of violence. Drawing on the October 7 contemporary testimony collections of the USC Shoah Foundation and the Ghetto Fighters' House, this webinar explores how firsthand accounts can illuminate the realities of contemporary antisemitism, challenge misinformation and dehumanization, and foster meaningful engagement with complex and difficult topics.

Participants will be introduced to educational guidelines, research resources, and practical tools for incorporating testimony into classrooms, scholarship, and public learning environments. Developed jointly by the USC Shoah Foundation and the Ghetto Fighters’ House as a follow up to Collecting Testimony Then & Now, the session will examine how personal narratives can support the study of contemporary antisemitism, strengthen critical inquiry, and create opportunities for reflection while preserving the dignity, agency, and lived experiences of those who have shared their stories.

During this session, participants will:

• Examine how personal narratives can support the study of contemporary antisemitism

• Explore educational guidelines and research resources for incorporating testimony into curriculum and scholarship