Swastika—Symbol of Hate is a Holocaust education film project of Lappin Foundation, whose mission is enhancing Jewish identity across generations. The swastika has become a major symbol of the Holocaust. Swastika—Symbol of Hate is a short film explaining the origins of the swastika as a symbol of peace and goodwill and about how Hitler hijacked it to use as a symbol of the Nazi party. The film briefly explores the horrific events that took place during the Holocaust under Hitler’s reign. Short interviews with Holocaust survivors Magda Bader and Dr. Hans Fisher reflecting on what the swastika symbol means to them are meant to be thought-provoking, serving as a starting point for conversations with students about what the swastika represents. The film is geared toward students in grades 6 and above. The film can be especially powerful when a swastika shows up in a school or in a community. A teacher’s guide is available here.

For more information about Swastika—Symbol of Hate or for ideas about how to use it to teach about the Holocaust, email dcoltin@lappinfoundation.org.