A Holocaust museum in New York City has announced a new program that will offer free educational field trips to eighth grade students in public schools in an effort to combat antisemitism. Up to 85,000 students from traditional public schools and charter schools in New York City will have the opportunity to tour Manhattan’s Museum of Jewish Heritage over the next three years, starting in the fall. The program aims to host one-third of the district’s eighth graders each year, making it one of the largest educational initiatives in the city.
City Council member Julie Menin, the daughter of a Holocaust survivor, initiated the program after the Oct. 7 attacks on Israel, seeking to address the rising antisemitism in the U.S. The $2.5 million effort is supported by the Gray Foundation, a nonprofit funded by Blackstone CEO Jon Gray, along with other potential sources to cover the costs. The program includes transportation, guides, and take-home materials for the students, in addition to the educational tour of the museum.
The tours at the Museum of Jewish Heritage will focus on the global history of antisemitism and propaganda that led to the Holocaust, as well as provide students with the opportunity to reflect on current events. Principals will play a crucial role in selecting which schools will participate in the program, and schools can sign up through the museum’s website. The program is intended to remove barriers to participation and encourage schools to engage in educational initiatives that combat antisemitism.
New York City Schools Chancellor David Banks testified before the U.S. Congress about the city’s efforts to combat antisemitism in schools, including developing a new curriculum that highlights the culture and contributions of the Jewish community. The city’s public schools are required to teach about the Holocaust, with an explicit curriculum covering the subject beginning in eighth grade. The new program at the Museum of Jewish Heritage will provide students with a hands-on educational experience that complements the existing curriculum.
Since the Israel-Hamas war erupted, there have been incidents targeting Jewish and Muslim Americans across the country, ranging from offensive graffiti to violence. The educational field trips offered by the museum aim to address the root causes of antisemitism and provide students with a deeper understanding of the consequences of hatred and prejudice. By engaging students in meaningful discussions about historical events, the program seeks to foster empathy, tolerance, and respect among the next generation.
The Museum of Jewish Heritage is known for its educational programs and exhibits that explore Jewish history, culture, and the Holocaust. By offering free field trips to eighth grade students, the museum is expanding its reach and impact in educating young people about the dangers of hate and discrimination. The initiative demonstrates a proactive approach to combating antisemitism and promoting understanding, compassion, and unity in the face of rising hatred and intolerance. With the support of the community and dedicated partners, the program at the Museum of Jewish Heritage has the potential to make a lasting impact on future generations.
