This year, the Jewish Federation proudly supported several Yom HaShoah commemorations and events throughout the heart of New Jersey. “We encouraged the entire community to join Holocaust remembrance events to commemorate the lives of all who perished and to honor those who have lived to share Holocaust teachings so the world never forgets," said Susan Antman, Executive Vice President of the Jewish Federation. "In doing so we affirm life and justice, not just for ourselves, but for our children, grandchildren and future generations.”

The commemorations included the annual Interfaith Holocaust Memorial Program, in collaboration with Metuchen-Edison Area Interfaith Clergy Association and the Jewish Community Center of Middlesex County. The evening included readings, musical selections, and a candle lighting to memorialize the lives of those touched by the Holocaust. 

Explaining the Holocaust, a program co-sponsored by the Center for Holocaust, Human Rights, and Genocide Education (Chhange), featured Dr. Peter Hayes, author of the book, "Why? Explaining the Holocaust." The emotional event included local Holocaust survivors escorted by sailors from Naval Weapons Stations Earle, and a musical performance by the Marlboro High School Choir. 

The Henry Ricklis Holocaust Memorial Committee held its annual Yom HaShoah observance in Monroe. This year's keynote speaker, Pastor Chris Edmonds, son of Sgt. Roddie Edmonds – the first American serviceman from WWII to be recognized as Righteous Among the Nations, spoke in honor of his father. 

Lastly, Rutgers AEPi presented Unto Every Person There Is a Name, their 24 hour event reading the names of Holocaust victims. A silent memorial walk around Rutgers' College Ave. Campus preceeded the day-long event.