The fifth Local Leaders of Dialogue Conference, organized by Forum for Dialogue and local Leaders: Anita Rucioch-Gołek from Zbąszyń and Łukasz Robak from Pszczew, took place on September 6-8. This year the event was held in western Poland – Greater Poland and Lubusz provinces – characterized by a different Jewish history than the shtetl traditions of central and eastern Poland. This allowed for a more complex discussion of Jewish heritage in Poland. Thanks to Anita’s ability to bring people together, the participants had a unique opportunity learn about Jewish life on site in Zbąszyń, Międzyrzecz, Pszczew, and Skwierzyna.

Local Conferences are annual meetings aimed at creating productive space in which Leaders can interact, share experiences, and integrate as a group. As hosts, the Leaders have a unique opportunity to present their work to others. Traveling together, the Leaders can exchange and test ideas, practical solutions, and experiences.

photos by K.Rożek

Project co-financed by the Ledor Wador Foundation.

In appreciation to the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany (Claims Conference) for supporting this educator training program. Through recovering the assets of the victims of the Holocaust, the Claims Conference enables organizations around the world to provide education about the Shoah and to preserve the memory of those who perished.