Butterflies in Remembrance of the Holocaust

“The Butterfly” is a poem written by Pavel Friedmann in 1942 while imprisoned in the Terezin Concentration Camp during the Holocaust. This poem is featured in the book “I Never Saw Another Butterfly”, a collection of artwork, poetry, and writing by children imprisoned at Terezin. From this poem, the image of the butterfly has emerged as an unforgettable symbol of the Holocaust.

Learn about the Holocaust with the included educational booklet and create a paper butterfly in honor and remembrance of one of the 1.5 million children that lost their lives at Terezin and other concentration camps throughout Germany and Eastern Europe.

Pavel Friedmann, a young Czech born in 1921 ultimately died in Auschwitz in 1944.  The butterfly represents the beauty and freedom that was taken away from so many during one of the darkest periods in world history. 

Content Warning:  Mature theme depicting the Holocaust.  

This take-home kit was developed in accordance with education standards from The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and Holocaust educators.  It is recommended that Holocaust education begin no earlier than 6th grade.  The values of diversity and the danger of bias and prejudice could begin as early as 8 years.

Kits may be picked up at the Downtown Library via Curbside Delivery or inside at the Circulation Desk beginning April 4 through April 16, 2025.