Holocaust survivor Ruth Ravina tells students ‘Never Again’

Juniors and students enrolled in Genocide and Holocaust courses attended a presentation from Holocaust survivor Ruth Ravina on Nov. 13. The presentation began with an introduction from history teacher Chris Benaquista, followed by a 15 minute documentary about the liberators who freed concentration camps. Ravina then shared her story, detailing the events that allowed her to outlive the genocide.

Invited by junior Evie Klein, Ravina sat on stage with Klein and told her story. Although she spoke at West Essex last year, she revealed details about her father that she admitted she had never told before. Ravina said she feels agitated and uncomfortable talking about her experiences.

“It brings up awful memories,” Ravina said. “I have spent most of my life trying to live a normal life, therefore, I have been trying to hold down certain emotions. Emotions of revenge. Emotions toward other people. I try to use logic to reason my feelings. Otherwise, I would be a bitter angry woman.”

Ravina said that while sharing her story is painful, it is important. During her presentation, she emphasized the theme, “Never Again,” which was introduced in the documentary. She said history that is ignored often repeats itself.

“The more you know, the less likely it is to repeat again,” Ravina said. “My motto is ‘Remember and tell.’ ”

Klein met Ravina through a program called Twin with a Survivor through the Holocaust Council of Greater MetroWest. Since she was 12 years, Klein has been working with Ravina.

“I have spent the last five years working with Ruth and other Holocaust survivors,” Klein said. “Mainly I organize speaking opportunities for Ruth.”

Klein also said that she thinks it is important to share Ravina’s story.

“Now more than ever it is important to share Ruth’s story because of the rise in anti-semitism, really hatred overall, that has occurred in the past year,” Klein said. “Also, this is the last generation that will be able to experience a primary account of the Holocaust, so Ruth feels it is important to share her story while she can.”