Dear Mavericks,

The lessons of history are important to hold close if we are going to build a truly powerful future, and today marks a monumental moment from the world’s history: the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau camps, home to some of the worst tragedies of the Holocaust.

Seventeen years ago, the first commemoration ceremony of the International Holocaust Remembrance Day at the UN Headquarters in New York City took place, and is recognized each year, today. This recognition of the past and the scope of such tragedies is necessary if we are to build an inclusive future for all.

To build a strong future that ensures everyone is included, we must understand and learn from our shared past. The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is dedicated to creating spaces where people can gather and learn, so that we can all grow together.

This is why, in 2019, UNO hosted a powerful exhibition of artwork by renowned artist Samuel Bak. WITNESS: The Art of Samuel Bak had a profound impact on UNO and the Omaha-metro area community. His work depicts the pain of loss, but also often evokes a sense of hope in its design. Since that initial exhibit, Bak has donated hundreds of his paintings so that UNO can create a space of learning for critical thought and discussion. We are truly honored that Mr. Bak has chosen to make UNO a permanent home for his collected works.

The grand opening of the Samuel Bak Museum: The Learning Center will create a new space for the public, a facility where visitors can interact with the work and each other, developing intercultural dialogues, meaningful discussion, and thoughtful reflection. These kinds of opportunities to engage will help students develop a greater sense of purpose, deeper civic responsibility, critical thought, and awareness of inclusivity and cultural heritage, which are truly vital to foster if the persecutions of the past are to help us develop the determination and skills make all persecution a thing of the past.

Please join me on February 4^th for the grand opening along with an opening lecture and performance of musical work inspired by Bak’s work. I will see you there!

Sincerely,

Joanne Li, Ph.D., CFA

Chancellor

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