As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact our lives, three upcoming Jewish holidays can help us reflect and offer perspective on the past, present, and future. Check out the compiled list below for virtual resources, online events, and materials for inspiring your Yom Hashoah, Yom Hazikaron, and Yom Ha’atzmaut programs and ideas. 

Yom Hashoah

Yom Hashoah is the annual day of remembrance for the victims of the Holocaust observed by Jewish communities around the world. In 2021, Yom Hashoah begins on the evening of April 7.

  • Remembrance and Celebration Resources by Josh Traulsen
    • The first section of this article published last year gives an overview of what Yom Hashoah is and some tips for programming.
  • Virtual Resource Hub
    • A compiled list of digital resources and experiences offered to the public by a variety of organizations, museums, and communities.

 

  • Holocaust Resource Center – Speakers Bureau
    • Watch video testimonies of Holocaust survivors.
  • Holocaust Films on Netflix and Amazon
    • Ten iconic movies that can be streamed for a viewing event.
  • Online Exhibitions at Yad Vashem
    • Go on a virtual tour of Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center in Israel.
  • Virtual March of the Living
    • Join this virtual remembrance event featuring Israel’s President Reuven Rivlin, Holocaust survivors, and other prominent speakers. Participants in the Virtual March from across the globe were filmed using innovative 3D technology so they appear to be marching along with the traditional March of the Living route at Auschwitz – Birkenau.
  • Hitkansut Memory Circles
    • The Shalom Hartman Institute has designed a ritual gathering for Yom Hashoah called Hitkansut, facilitated through a special Haggadah. Reach out through the “Contact Us” section of their website to inquire about how to lead your own Memory Circle.

Yom Hazikaron

Yom Hazikaron is a declared day to remember those who lost their lives in the struggle that led to the establishment of the State of Israel and for all military personnel who were killed while in active duty in Israel’s armed forces. In 2021, Yom Hazikaron begins on the evening of April 13.

  • Remembrance and Celebration Resources by Josh Traulsen
    • The third section of this article offers an overview of Yom Ha’atzmaut and some tips for programming.
  • Virtual Memorial Ceremony
    • Masa Israel will be hosting their tradition of coming together to commemorate this important day virtually via Facebook Live.

Yom Ha’atzmaut

Yom Ha’atzmaut is a joyful celebration of Israel’s independence and is celebrated annually both in Israel and in Jewish communities around the world. In 2021, Yom Ha’atzmaut begins on the evening of April 14.

  • Global Trivia Championship
    • Celebrate Israel by learning, connecting, and winning in an online trivia competition.
  • Remembrance and Celebration Resources by Josh Traulsen
    • The third section of this article published last year gives an overview of what Yom Ha’atzmaut is and some tips for programming.
  • Tractate Independence made by BINA
    • A commentary that breaks down each paragraph of Israel’s Declaration of Independence.