A Journey of Survival: One Family’s Incredible Escape from the Holocaust
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
MAHWAH, NJ — How does a family survive the unthinkable and go on to build a legacy in America? For Gerald Zaks, answering that question became a lifelong mission.
After a successful career in Information Technology, Zaks turned his analytical skills toward a different kind of data: his own family’s history. Now, the Mahwah community is invited to join him for “Bearing Witness for My Family,” a deeply personal and historical presentation that traces his parents’ journey from the brink of tragedy to liberation.
From Nazi Records to Personal Memories
The story begins in 1937, with two teenagers—just 17 and 18 years old—unaware that the world as they knew it was about to vanish. Zaks’ research meticulously follows his parents through:
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Pre-War Life: A glimpse into their world before the Nazi occupation.
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The Struggle for Survival: The harrowing selection processes, life inside multiple concentration camps, and the endurance required for the infamous death marches.
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Liberation and Renewal: The moment of freedom and the courageous journey of rebuilding their lives from scratch in the United States.
What sets this presentation apart is the primary evidence Zaks has gathered. Attendees will see actual Nazi documentation and hear rare audio clips from interviews Zaks conducted with his parents in 1980, allowing their own voices to tell their story.
A Sensitive Approach to History
While the subject matter is profound, the presentation is designed to be accessible to everyone. Gerald Zaks has carefully curated the experience to ensure it is educational and appropriate for all ages.
“This presentation does NOT contain ‘horrific’ imagery. Instead, it focuses on the human experience, resilience, and the historical records that prove the strength of the human spirit.”
Event Details & Reservations
This is a unique opportunity for residents, students, and history buffs to engage with a second-generation survivor and ensure the promise of “Never Forget” is kept alive.
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Location: Mahwah, NJ (Venue details provided upon registration)
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Focus: Holocaust Education, Family History, and Historical Documentation
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Registration: Due to expected interest, seating is limited.
Reserve your spot today to receive full event details and help us plan for seating: 👉 Register Here via Zeffy
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Tags: #MahwahNJ #HolocaustRemembrance #NeverForget #FamilyHistory #WWIIHistory #BergenCountyEvents #SurvivorStories #Education #NJEvents
