Founded in Israel and now active internationally, Zikaron BaSalon has grown into a global movement that reimagines Holocaust remembrance. Rather than gathering in large auditoriums or at official ceremonies, participants meet in private homes and community spaces to hear Holocaust survivors and their descendants share their stories and memories.
The informal setting encourages questions and exchange. Participants are invited not only to listen but also to reflect on the lessons of the Holocaust and their relevance today. In this way, remembrance becomes an active process that fosters empathy, responsibility, and a deeper understanding of the consequences of antisemitism, exclusion, and hatred.
Assia Gorban with Landecker Co-CEO Lena Altman
Assia Gorban
A Holocaust survivor sharing their story at Zikaron BaSalon
Sophia Evalenko at Zikaron BaSalon
Zikaron BaSalon
The strength of Zikaron BaSalon lies in its ability to create meaningful encounters between generations. Hearing a survivor’s testimony in a small-group setting allows participants to connect with individual lives and perspectives rather than abstract historical narratives. These encounters often leave a lasting impression, particularly on younger participants, helping ensure that these stories are carried forward beyond the lifetime of those who witnessed the Holocaust firsthand.
In Germany, Zikaron BaSalon works with Holocaust survivors, descendants, volunteers, and partner organizations to expand opportunities for participation and remembrance. Through host trainings, educational initiatives, and community engagement, the project helps ensure that Holocaust testimony continues to reach new audiences and remain accessible over time.
As the era of living eyewitnesses gradually comes to an end, initiatives such as Zikaron BaSalon play an increasingly important role in preserving memory.