The University of West Georgia welcomes Holocaust Survivor Eva Kor for a speaking event on Friday, September 20, at 6 p.m. in the Townsend Center. Eva, a survivor of Mengele’s twin experiments during the Holocaust, will be speaking on “The Triumph of the Human Spirit: from Auschwitz to Forgiveness.” This free event is open to the public and is sponsored by the School of Nursing, Pi Nu Honor Society and the College of Arts and Humanities.
Eva was only 10 years old when her entire family was placed in a concentration camp. She and her twin sister Miriam were separated from the rest of their family, and the two girls barely survived the torturous experiments Josef Mengele performed on them. Of the 1,500 sets of twins experimented on, only around 200 children survived long enough to see the Soviet Army liberate the camp in January 1945.
"We are honored to bring Ms. Kor to campus," says Dr. Kathryn Grams, dean of UWG's School of Nursing. "The School of Nursing, Pi Nu and the College of Arts and Humanities are fortunate to have the opportunity to hear her personal story of loss, recovery and forgiveness. Her mission to prevent prejudice and hatred through education truly exemplifies the caring spirit."
UWG student Katie Battle is responsible for bringing Eva to campus. “I have always been passionate about keeping Holocaust history alive,” Katie explains. “I believe it is imperative that we continue to talk about the horrible deeds the human race is capable of. Though it may be difficult to discuss, I feel that talking about the Holocaust encourages others to stand up to unethical acts and racism.”
Katie feels Eva’s message is especially relevant to the School of Nursing. “I hope this event makes people think about ethics, especially getting nursing students and nurses to consider medical ethics,” she says. “I hope there is only standing room and that people will be eager to hear Eva's miraculous and inspiring story of survival and forgiveness.”
Eva will be signing copies of her book, “Surviving the Angel of Death: The True Story of a Mengele Twin in Auschwitz” after the presentation. Although tickets are not required, anyone interested in attending should call the Townsend Center at 678-839-4722 to reserve a seat.
