John S. Holocaust testimony
Abstract
A follow-up, directed videotape testimony of Reverend John S., whose first testimony was recorded in 1983. Reverend S. relates satisfaction from his first testimony, particularly in countering Holocaust deniers; detailed visual and aural recall of events he experienced during the Holocaust, despite hazy memories of others; his walking away from the train without protesting as symbolic of an entire generation; despite taking great risks to hide Czech resistants, his continuing sense of personal tragedy in not having helped Jews; speaking at length about this on the rare opportunities when he can; the importance of teaching all students about the Holocaust, particularly if they are to value democracy; his sensory, rather than narrative sense of memory; leaving for China in 1947 which provided no opportunity to discuss his war experiences, except when visiting his mother in Kos?ice; reluctance of others to recall this period; and his mother's great sadness at the fate of her beloved Jewish neighbors. He emphasizes the importance of protesting against any oppression.
Extent and Medium
2 videocassettes (3/4" u-matic)
Conditions Governing Access
This testimony is open with permission.
Conditions Governing Reproduction
Copyright has been transferred to the Fortunoff Video Archive for Holocaust Testimonies. Use of this testimony requires permission of the Fortunoff Video Archive.
Rules and Conventions
Describing Archives: A Content Standard
Process Info
compiled by Staff of the Fortunoff Video Archive for Holocaust Testimonies
People
- S., John, -- 1922-1988.
Subjects
- Video tapes.
- Bystanders.
- Catholics.
- World War, 1939-1945 -- Personal narratives, Czech.
- Holocaust, Jewish (1939-1945) -- Personal narratives.
- Men.
Places
- KosĚice (Slovakia)
- Czechoslovakia.
Genre
- Oral histories. -- aat