Memory Reminders

When we visited Auschwitz this summer, I learned that, in the Polish town of Oswiecim (Auschwitz), the Jewish population before World War II was about 7,500. There is no sign of this for the many, many visitors to Auschwitz. So, it seemed to me it would be helpful if, in each Polish city (and in locations of former shtetls now wiped off the map), there would be a sign posted on the road at the city limits stating what the pre-war Jewish population was, and how many were alive at the end of the war. Not that I think that the Polish population would rally around to support the idea, but I think it would provide an important long term lesson for all.

I learned this week that in Germany, something similar is actually in existence. Although it is less obvious to the traveler, a German artist named Gunter Demnig has been placing gold cobblestones on the grounds in front of buildings, giving the names of a World War II victim and the date they were deported or murdered by the Nazis. There are now 6,000 of these across the country, and can be sponsored for just $115. Demnig just was awarded the German government's Federal Service Cross.