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Cleaning work at the Jewish Cemetery.
Photo by Andrzej Rudiak.
Professional Ethics Training: Reaching Law Enforcement and International Agencies
The AJCF also continues to extend its influence through professional ethics seminars for law enforcement. This summer saw the fifth seminar for Icelandic police officers, focusing on the ethical responsibilities of law enforcement in upholding human rights. Additionally, the AJCF is a key partner in training programs for the top-level management of Europol, emphasizing the importance of ethical leadership in combating transnational crime. These initiatives draw on the lessons of the Holocaust to highlight the dangers of dehumanization and the abuse of authority, promoting a culture of integrity and responsibility at the highest levels of law enforcement.
Extending the Reach: Western Studies Institute and the Anti-Discrimination Education Academy
Beyond ASAP, the AJCF’s educational outreach this summer included the Genocide Research Trip for Saudi scholars, marking the first time a delegation from Saudi Arabia visited Auschwitz-Birkenau. This historic visit was an unprecedented opportunity for cross-cultural dialogue and understanding, reinforcing the universal relevance of Holocaust education.
The Anti-Discrimination Education Academy, organized in partnership with the POLIN Museum, also concluded successfully this summer. The Academy provided educators, activists, and community leaders with the tools to combat discrimination and promote inclusivity. Participants engaged in workshops and discussions that explored the roots of prejudice and developed strategies for fostering tolerance in their communities. “Understanding the mechanisms of discrimination is crucial for creating a more inclusive society,” said one participant, underscoring the Academy’s impact.
Conclusion
The Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation’s summer programs in 2024 were more than
just educational experiences; they were profound journeys of personal and professional transformation. From cadets and scholars to educators and law enforcement officers, participants were challenged to reflect on their roles as leaders and their responsibilities in promoting justice and preventing future atrocities.
As the AJCF continues to expand its reach and impact, programs like ASAP and ASAP MMA remain at the core of its mission, demonstrating the enduring relevance of Holocaust education in shaping a more ethical and empathetic world. Through these initiatives, the AJCF is preparing
a new generation of leaders who are equipped not only with knowledge but with the moral courage to make
a difference.
We extend our gratitude to the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany and Taube Foundation for their support of the American Service Academies Program.