Millennials, Gen Z and the Future of Memory

As Holocaust survivors age and fewer firsthand witnesses remain, younger generations are increasingly becoming the keepers of memory. In this episode of Chosen For What?, host Tommy Schnurmacher speaks with grandchildren and descendants of Holocaust survivors about what it means to inherit this history, and how they are choosing to carry it forward in their own lives.

Natalie Bruck reflects on the close bond she shared with her grandfather and the personal memories that continue to shape her understanding of her family's past. Mollie Bowman, Managing Director of Living Links, discusses how third-generation descendants are building networks and communities rooted in shared history, identity, and remembrance. Stacy Seltzer speaks about the unique common ground that often exists among descendants of survivors, even when their family stories differ. The episode also features Dorothy Goldwin, a second-generation survivor whose daughters are now continuing their family's commitment to Holocaust education and remembrance.

Together, these conversations explore what Holocaust memory looks like for Millennials and Gen Z, how younger generations connect to stories they did not live through themselves, and why preserving these histories remains so important. The episode also touches on intergenerational memory, Jewish identity, Holocaust education, and the responsibility many descendants feel to ensure these stories are never forgotten.

Chosen For What? is brought to you by the Foundation for Genocide Education, a Canadian non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring that every student understands the history and lessons of the Holocaust and other genocides. To learn more about their work, or to make a donation, please visit GenEd.org.

*Note: You will hear the terms 2G and 3G used frequently in this podcast. This refers to second-generation and third-generation descendants of Holocaust survivors.