Commonpoint Queens Commemorates Kristallnacht with Resilience Exhibit

Commonpoint Queens commemorated Kristallnacht on Wednesday, November 9 with the opening of the photo exhibition “Resilience,” featuring the portraits – and words of resilience – of Holocaust survivors at their Sam Field Center in Little Neck. Over 150 people joined the reception including Holocaust Survivors, their family and friends, staff, and community members.

“We are so thankful to all of the Survivors for being giving of their time and participating in this project,” said Danielle Ellman, Commonpoint Queens CEO. “Especially with the current rise in antisemitism, we thank you for retelling your story and reliving your trauma so we don’t forget the atrocities of the Holocaust for many generations.”

The photos in the exhibition depict what resilience has meant to the survivors both from personal experiences during the Holocaust and throughout their lives. In addition to the photos are written words offering advice and wisdom about the power of resilience, aimed at the next generation.

The Resilience Exhibition is a special program through the Commonpoint Queens Resilience Program for Holocaust Survivors, which includes personal concierge services for survivors, social programs, referrals to community services, assistance with reparations, home deliveries from the Commonpoint Queens kosher food pantry, assistance with advance care planning, emergency financial assistance, supportive counseling services, and community events.

One of the Holocaust Survivors featured in the exhibit, Anita, shared “My experiences during the Holocaust enabled me to face and deal with whatever situations developed during my lifetime. Surviving the Holocaust strengthened me to overcome life’s challenges. Resilience to me is being able to cope with whatever life throws at me!”

Viewing of the exhibition for the general public is by appointment only from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm on Monday through Friday. To make an appointment, please contact Beth Taboh at 718-225-6750 x212 or btaboh@commonpointqueens.org. Groups are encouraged to make an appointment and attend.

To learn more about the Resilience Program and upcoming events, please contact Aron Katayev at 718-225-6750 x211 or AKatayev@CommonPointQueens.org.