Holocaust Survivor Shares Story of Hope at Parkland College

At 85 years old, Dr. William Gingold carries memories that most of us can only read about in history books. Now he's bringing his story of survival and resilience to Parkland College, giving the community a chance to hear living history firsthand.

The special program happens Friday, February 20, from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Gingold was born in Warsaw just days after Nazi forces invaded Poland in 1939.

His presentation will trace his family's harrowing path through the Warsaw Ghetto, their deportation to Siberia, and their eventual arrival at Ellis Island in 1951. His story isn't just about survival. It's about the strength of the human spirit and what perseverance looks like in the face of unimaginable loss.

The event includes something equally powerful: the Righteous Among the Nations exhibit. This display celebrates non-Jewish individuals who risked their own lives to protect Jewish people during the Holocaust.

Why This Inspires

These ordinary people became extraordinary heroes simply by choosing compassion over fear. They hid families in attics, smuggled children to safety, and forged documents knowing discovery meant death. Their courage reminds us that even in the darkest times, goodness can shine through.

Dr. Gingold's willingness to share his painful memories serves a vital purpose today. With fewer Holocaust survivors alive to tell their stories, each testimony becomes more precious. His voice bridges the gap between textbook facts and human experience.

Organizers emphasize that the program offers lessons extending far beyond historical knowledge. It's about understanding empathy, moral responsibility, and human dignity in ways that resonate with modern challenges.

The event is completely free and open to everyone in the community. Registration is encouraged and can be completed online through Parkland College's website or by calling 217-351-2235.

Hearing directly from someone who lived through history's darkest chapter transforms abstract dates and numbers into something deeply personal and unforgettable.