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This Holocaust Remembrance Day marks 80 years since American and Allied soldiers liberated prisoners from Nazi-occupied concentration and extermination camps in Europe. Join us for a moderated discussion with Holocaust survivor Laszlo Selly and Dr. Dipak Joshi as they discuss Hall's experiences during the Holocaust. Registration is required. For more information, please contact the branch at 305-442-8706 or capleybr@mdpls.org. Ages 14 yrs.+
About the Speaker: Laszlo Selly and his twin brother were born in Budapest, Hungary, on December 31, 1937, into a middle-class, secular Jewish family. At six years of age, he remembers his mother sewing a yellow star onto his outer garments. Desperate to keep their twins safe, Laszlo’s parents made the difficult decision to send them into hiding. This plan led them into great danger and they returned to their parents. Somehow, Laszlo’s father obtained a Raoul Wallenberg certificate of protection that allowed the family to move to a safe house.
After liberation by the Soviets, the family began rebuilding their life in Budapest. The twins started school and underwent ten years of intense communist indoctrination. As Laszlo was completing his training as a professional photographer, the 1956 Hungarian Revolution began. During the chaos of the revolution, Laszlo and his brother escaped from Hungary and made their way to the United States.
In New York, Laszlo became a very successful food photographer working with advertising agencies, hotel chains, and package designers. After he retired, Laszlo and his wife, Gail, moved to Florida to be near their family.
About the Moderator: Dr. Dipak Joshi, moved from the United Kingdom to the United States. He is currently involved with several Civic, Healthcare, and Sustainability projects within the City of Coral Gables. He also has a strong interest in World War II history and Holocaust educational efforts.
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2025 marks the eightieth anniversary of the end of the Second World War, a pivotal historical moment that continues to resonate profoundly in our global landscape. The Miami-Dade Public Library System proudly presents World War II at 80 - a year-long series honoring historical milestones. Enlightening panel discussions and presentations, thought-provoking exhibits and book clubs, along with other insightful events are planned throughout the year. Discover Miami's role in this informative chapter of history and its ongoing relevance today.
Visit https://mdpls.org/WWII to learn more and see the schedule of events.
AGE GROUP: | Young Adult (12-18) | Older Adults (55+) | Adult (19+) |
EVENT TYPE: | Special Event | In-Person | History |
TAGS: | World War II at 80 | Tween | Teen | Seniors | In-Person | Hobbies & Special Interest | Education | Adults (21+) |