Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center facts for kids
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A view of the Museum and Education Center from the northeast.
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| Established | 1981 (Original Site) 2009 (Current Site) |
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| Location | 9603 Woods Drive Skokie, Illinois |
| Type | Holocaust memorials |
| Visitors | over 300,000 |
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| Public transit access |  PaceCTA |
The Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center is a special museum located in Skokie, Illinois, a town near Chicago. Its main goal is to "Remember the Past; Transform the Future."
The museum teaches visitors about the Holocaust, a terrible event in history where millions of people were killed. By sharing their stories, the museum hopes to stop hatred and prejudice. It encourages everyone to stand up for what is right. The museum uses its exhibits and educational programs to teach about human rights and prevent such events from ever happening again.
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The Museum's Story
The museum's story began in 1981. At first, it was a small foundation in a storefront on Main Street in Skokie. This town was home to many survivors of the Holocaust. The museum was created after a group with hateful beliefs tried to march in Skokie. The community came together to create a place of learning and remembrance instead.
On April 19, 2009, the museum opened its big, new building. It was a major event. Former U.S. President Bill Clinton gave a speech, and Elie Wiesel, a famous writer and Holocaust survivor, was there. Other world leaders, like President Barack Obama and Israeli President Shimon Peres, sent video messages of support.
After a security incident at another museum in June 2009, the Illinois Holocaust Museum made its own security stronger to ensure all visitors are safe.
The Take a Stand Center
In 2017, the museum opened a special area called the Take a Stand Center. This center has four galleries with cool, interactive technology. One of the most amazing parts is a theater with holograms of Holocaust survivors. These holograms can answer questions, making it feel like you are talking with them.
Next to the hologram theater, there is an exhibit about people and groups who have fought for human rights. It talks about important ideas like the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It also shares the stories of brave people like Ruby Bridges, who helped end segregation in schools, and Malala Yousafzai, who fights for girls' education.
A Building with a Message
The museum's building, designed by architect Stanley Tigerman, is part of the story. The outside of the building is split into two colors: black and white. The black side, where you enter, represents a dark and difficult past. The white side, where you exit, represents a brighter, more hopeful future.
Inside, the museum is organized on three floors:
- The first floor has the main Holocaust exhibit. You'll also find the entrance, a gift shop, and a library here.
- The upper floor has spaces for remembrance, an art gallery, and offices.
- The basement has classrooms, a special exhibit for children, and a conference area.
How to Visit the Museum
The museum is in the town of Skokie, just west of the Edens Expressway (a major highway). It is easy to get to by car or by public transportation. Several bus lines, including CTA and Pace buses, have stops nearby.
See also
In Spanish: Centro de Educación y Museo del Holocausto de Illinois para niños
- History of the Jews in Chicago
- Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership: A Jewish educational and cultural center in Chicago.
