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Quebec is one of the provinces in Canada that does not include Holocaust studies in its curricula. In the United States of America, many states require that Holocaust studies be integrated into their curricula while others present the subject as an optional course. The alarming and virulent increase in human rights violations, violence, racism, hatred and anti-Semitism in North America and worldwide underscores the need for major changes in the content of some courses in schools both here and abroad.
The Quebec Education Program offers opportunities to teach students to take positions on these issues as well as engage students in action to promote respect for diversity.
Teachers will find it instructive to participate in professional development opportunities that equip them to help sensitize students to the facts and consequences of the Holocaust and human rights violations. One such excellent opportunity is available at The Yad Vashem Seminars for Educators, International School for Holocaust Studies in Jerusalem, Israel. These Seminars provide information and tools to teachers to facilitate changes in attitudes and behaviours in the schools. The International School for Holocaust Studies is the only school in the world that is devoted to Holocaust education. Yad Vashem is the official Holocaust Memorial Authority.
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