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Somerset Today
By the People, for the People
Holocaust Survivor's Child Shares Parents' Stories with Somerset Students
Emily Shulman spoke to history classes at Somerset County Vocational and Technical High School about her parents' experiences during the Holocaust.
Published on Feb. 25, 2026
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Emily Shulman, the child of Holocaust survivors from Poland, recently visited Somerset County Vocational and Technical High School to share her parents' stories of survival and the help they received from families who hid them and a German soldier who aided her mother's escape. Shulman's main message was about the importance of being "doers" who help those in need, rather than "watchers" who stand by. After her two-hour presentation, students discussed ways to be forces for good in their communities.
Why it matters
Sharing the personal stories of Holocaust survivors and their families helps educate the next generation about the impacts of the Holocaust and the importance of standing up against injustice. As the number of living Holocaust survivors dwindles, it is crucial to preserve these firsthand accounts to ensure the lessons of the past are not forgotten.
The details
During her visit, Shulman highlighted the help her parents received from families who hid them and a German soldier who aided her mother's escape from a dangerous situation. She encouraged the students to be "doers" who help those in need, rather than "watchers" who stand by. After the presentation, the students asked prepared questions and discussed ways to be forces for good in their communities.
- On February 25, 2026, Emily Shulman visited Somerset County Vocational and Technical High School.
The players
Emily Shulman
The child of Holocaust survivors from Poland who shared her parents' stories of survival with students.
Ed Graf
The history teacher at Somerset County Vocational and Technical High School who organized the visit and activities for his students.
Mike Boll
A representative from the New Jersey Veterans Network who accompanied Shulman during her visit.
Zisa Belfer
A representative from the New Jersey Veterans Network who accompanied Shulman during her visit.
What they’re saying
“Her main message was about "watchers" who stand by and "doers" who help those in need. She credited the "doers" her parents encountered with saving them and their lineage. She encouraged students to be "doers" and to stand up for those who need help.”
— Emily Shulman (Patch.com)
“The students were very impressed with Shulman. He added that they collectively and dramatically stated they wanted to be "doers" in life, not "watchers.”
— Ed Graf, History Teacher (Patch.com)
The takeaway
By sharing the personal stories of Holocaust survivors and their families, educators can inspire the next generation to be "doers" who stand up against injustice and help those in need, rather than "watchers" who remain silent. Preserving these firsthand accounts is crucial to ensuring the lessons of the past are not forgotten.
