The ‘Courage to Care’ traveling exhibition opened at Wollongong Art Gallery last week, bringing out stories that celebrate the courage of those who stand up to prejudice and discrimination.
Through inspiring stories of survival from the Holocaust, the organisation hopes to provide opportunities for people to connect and learn the importance of being an Upstander when confronted by discrimination.
Mr Monty Callaghan, the exhibition’s curator, said with the support from local government, they were able to convey meaningful messages to people via the exhibition.
“Through the tragic context of the Holocaust, visitors would understand that we can all be upstanders and prevent discrimination from sliding into its darkest and small acts of kindness can really go a long way.”
“We’re proud of the exhibition’s ability to make a positive difference and lasting impact, especially on young people on their ideas and attitudes around racism and bigotry, discrimination.”
There are some events and programs taking place in conjunction with the exhibition, providing people with all-rounded experiences and lessons. Special talks with local Upstanders provide a chance for recognition and celebration of people doing great things in the community.
Courage to Care CEO, Ed St John, said they were pleased to bring their traveling exhibition to Wollongong and provide the opportunity for the community to explore the space.
“One of the key themes of Courage to Care is that ordinary people are capable of extraordinary acts,” Mr St John said.
“In the Holocaust, that often meant risking your own life to save someone else’s – a very extreme example of courage. But people are capable of kindness and empathy in many small ways, and we like to celebrate that too.”
Booking for education programs is open for local schools and the community with a tour guide all throughout November via email.
‘Courage to Care’ exhibition showcases inspiring stories of Upstanders in the Wollongong Art Gallery
By Emily Nguyen
