Every year, the Los Angeles Jewish community participates in the International March of the Living, an educational program that brings Jewish teens from all over the world to Poland on Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Memorial Day) to march from Auschwitz to Birkenau, the largest concentration camp complex built during World War II, and then to Israel to observe Yom HaZikaron, (Israel Memorial Day), and Yom Ha'Atzmaut, (Israel Independence Day).

The two week experience teaches a profound lesson in Jewish history, personal Jewish identity and has a powerful life-changing impact on its participants.  The program uniquely helps teens to face the most significant events in the modern history of the Jewish people as they weave them into their own personal connection to the Jewish people.  The LA teens encounter the realities of the Shoah and the birth of the State of Israel together with their peers from 60 countries around the world - confirming that the endurance of the Jewish people is the ultimate victory. 

The BJE March of the Living experience is truly life-changing.  The 2010 Los Angeles Delegation consisted of 7 remarkable Holocaust survivors and 162 extraordinary teenagers who joined 10,000 Jewish teens from over 60 countries around the globe in remembering our past, living the present and marching into the future. 

In the words of our participants: 

“I can truly say that the trip changed my life. Over the two weeks I was away, not only did I learn about my history, and the history of my people, but I also learned about myself, and, I believe, grew as a person. The things I saw, the stories I heard, and the people I met will stay with me forever. Yes, the week in Poland was extremely difficult to experience, but I know I am better for it and that thus far, it has had the greatest impact on my life…However, when I get sad, I try to think of the amazing week I had in Israel; kayaking, meeting more new people, celebrating Independence Day with the Jewish people, and putting a note in the Western Wall…I learned more from this trip that I can even say; not just factually, but also emotionally and spiritually. I felt special to be able to meet such wonderful people, the survivors, because I know that I am part of the last generation that will be lucky enough to be graced with their presence.”    Jessie

“We were at the Kotel on Friday night for Kabbalat Shabbat. We heard singing towards the back. I turned around and realized that it was a group of Israeli soldiers; I decided to go check it out and possibly join in. Next thing I know, I was between two soldiers, arms around each other, dancing and singing Jewish songs. I had never met them before but I felt a strong feeling of unity towards them and to Israel. I am certain that this way one of the highlights of my trip.”   Matt

“As a result of this trip, I have learned to try to find the positive in life and remember how fortunate I am. I have also realized that I am responsible for my world and I must take greater action as to prevent atrocities. I have decided to become more active in school in regards to Darfur and the genocide taking place there.”

“Because of March of the Living, and after witnessing the horrific location in Poland; and the beauty in Israel, I feel a much greater sense of responsibility as a Jewish teenager. As cliché as it sounds, I strongly believe this trip changed my life. I have never been more proud of my Judaism. I have never felt a greater love and appreciation for my Jewish friends and family. Lastly, I have never felt a greater urge to want to learn more and further my studies of Hebrew and Jewish history.”  Aaron

“Our daughter returned a changed person. She has gained a new perspective on life, and has shown great growth and maturity. She understands the burden that rests upon her shoulders, as a young Jewish lady, to keep the stories alive, and stand united with Israel.”   From the parents of a participant