Whether you pass the UA Mall at 2 p.m. today or 2 a.m. tomorrow, you'll notice speakers, discussion groups and films offering students a powerful glimpse into the past.
Beginning at 10 a.m. today, the Hillel Foundation will be holding its 24-hour Vigil program dedicated the remembrance of the Holocaust.
The event, which is free and open to the public, features a variety of programs and events that address the importance of this year's theme: "Remembering the Past, Impacting the Future," according to a press release.
Shara Grifenhagen, program director for the Hillel Foundation, said the vigil would impact people of all different races and backgrounds.
"The Holocaust is an important part of history, not just for the Jewish people but for the entire world, so it is important that we remember it and pass the story from generation to generation," Grifenhagen said. "If you take a look at the discussion groups, you'll see that the topics are broad and cover a variety of issues that impact more than just Jewish people."
The event will include a reading of the names of Holocaust victims throughout the course of the 24-hour event, along with many inspirational activities and discussions for students to take part in.
According to the press release, one of many highlights of the event will be the 11 a.m. visit by Holocaust survivor Mina Dimont, who will share her life story. Dimont's parents and five siblings were all murdered by Nazis between 1941 and 1945, and her life is one of both tragedy and inspiration.
Lynn Saul, a writing teacher at Pima College, will hold the discussion group, "History in Today's Literature and Art: How Does the History of the Holocaust Impact Our Imagination?" at 2 p.m.
Students finding themselves awake in the early morning hours, can tomorrow catch a 2 a.m. showing of "Schindler's List," winner of seven Academy Awards.
Grifenhagen said people interested in volunteering to read victims' names need to sign up in advance with the Hillel Foundation, but other volunteers can show up to the Mall during an event.