OŚWIĘCIM, Poland – John Hope Bryant, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and Founder of Operation HOPE, is among a distinguished delegation of Black leaders participating in a historic journey to Poland this week to mark the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau. Organized by the Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation, this mission brings together leaders from diverse backgrounds to reflect on the lessons of history, stand against bigotry and strengthen Black-Jewish solidarity.
Bryant, who Van Jones invited to take part in this meaningful experience, joins a coalition of influential figures visiting Auschwitz, Krakow, and Warsaw to honor the memory of Holocaust victims and engage in discussions about the continued fight against antisemitism and racism.
The delegation will visit historic sites including the Auschwitz Jewish Center, Kazimierz Jewish Quarter, and Warsaw Ghetto Memorial. They will also participate in the official 80th Anniversary commemoration ceremony, joining Holocaust survivors, global dignitaries, and community leaders in remembering those who perished and reaffirming their commitment to education and action.
Notable figures on this journey include:
- Van Jones, CNN commentator, Emmy Award-winning producer, and founder of Dream Machine Innovation Lab, who brought together the delegation for this trip.
- Robert F. Smith, billionaire investor, philanthropist, and CEO of Vista Equity Partners.
- Victory Boyd, Grammy® Award-winning singer-songwriter.
- Malynda Hale, activist, actress, and founder of the Black Voices Heard Project.
- Pastor Carl Day, faith leader and social justice advocate.
“Almost 62 years ago, the Jewish and Black communities stood together in solidarity during the historic March on Washington, and today, we are deeply grateful to Van Jones and the delegation of Black leaders who have joined us to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz,” said Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation Director General Jack Simony. “As time passes and the horrors of the Holocaust grow more distant, it is crucial that we continue to honor its lessons and remain steadfast in the fight against antisemitism and all forms of bigotry. The lessons of the Holocaust are not just a part of history—they are a call to action, reminding us all of the devastating cost of hate and the urgent need to ensure future generations never forget.”
The Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation operates the only synagogue near Auschwitz and serves as the primary institution dedicated to preserving the memory of Oświęcim’s Jewish community while confronting hate worldwide. More than 800,000 people have visited the center, and over 10,000 individuals, including first responders, military personnel, students, and educators, have participated in its educational programs on tolerance and the Holocaust.
For more information on the Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation, visit https://ajcfus.org/.
For more on John Hope Bryant and Operation HOPE, visit www.operationhope.org.