Travelling Through History! It Keeps Repeating... #StayWoke #Liberation #Holocaust

It is so important to continue learning about history; to some-- media may be the only opportunity/version people see regarding these important events. 

So, although there may be mixed opinions about these "Simpsons" images, I commend them on their unique tribute to the 70th anniversary of Auschwitz' Liberation (Jan. 27, 1945): 

"First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Socialist.

Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out— 
Because I was not a Trade Unionist.

Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out— 
Because I was not a Jew.

Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me" (Niemöller). 

It could have been any of us!

Learning & teaching novels on the Holocaust last semester was saddening, engaging, and eye-opening for all. We are never too old to learn! Never forget. Never again. 

Keep in mind, the "proper name" Holocaust did not exist when it happened. It originally meant sacrifice by burning/ burnt offering--but now is a commonplace/ universal term for something so horrendous that devastated humanity (recorded circa 1957).  

Simpsons in a gas chamber. 

As an idealist, no matter how naive it seems, I still believe in humanity: "It's difficult in times like these: ideals, dreams and cherished hopes rise within us, only to be crushed by grim reality. It's a wonder I haven't abandoned all my ideals, they seem so absurd and impractical. Yet I cling to them because I still believe, in spite of everything, that people are truly good at heart. I simply can't build my hopes on a foundation of confusion, misery, and death. I hear the approaching thunder that, one day, will destroy us too, I feel the suffering of millions. And yet, when I look up at the sky, I somehow feel that this cruelty too shall end, and that peace & tranquility will return once again" (Anne Frank). 

Anne Frank "Simponsonized"

History continues repeating itself. Stay alert! 

http://www.jpost.com/Diaspora/Artist-draws-The-Simpsons-as-Jews-in-Auschwitz-for-anniversary-of-camps-liberation-389169  (Image Credits- Alexsandro Palombo).