Queen Máxima's Visit to Anne Frank Exhibition: A Lesson in Humanity

Visitors at Anne Frank Exhibition in New York, thoughtful.

Queen Máxima Engages Students at Anne Frank Exhibition

In a profound display of historical appreciation and empathy, Queen Máxima of the Netherlands visited the Anne Frank exhibition at the Center for Jewish History in New York City on February 25, 2025. This visit aligned with her duties as a U.N. Special Advocate and highlighted the importance of preserving the legacy of Anne Frank amidst rising antisemitism in today's society.

Unique Exhibition Experience

Led by Ronald Leopold, the executive director of the Anne Frank Foundation, the Queen explored an immersive re-creation of the secret Annex where Anne and her family spent two years in hiding during World War II. Unlike the bare and empty space in Amsterdam, this exhibition offers a rich, sensory experience, allowing visitors to connect with Anne’s life in a more tangible way. The exhibit’s emphasis on immersive storytelling is designed to foster awareness and understanding of Jewish history among younger generations, especially as they play a vital role in combating modern-day antisemitism.

Fostering Dialogue and Understanding

During her visit, Queen Máxima engaged with students from Great Neck North High School. She emphasized the values of seeing every individual as a person, regardless of their background: “What we learn from Anne Frank is that it’s a fundamental value to see everyone as a person—it doesn’t matter what religion or background they are.” This reinforces the exhibition’s goal of promoting empathy and awareness among youth, who are crucial in the fight against prejudice in society today.

A Community Commitment to Education

Exhibition benefactor Leo Ullman, a Holocaust survivor, echoed the Queen’s sentiments, recognizing the importance of such educational initiatives. He praised the royal family for their ongoing support of the Jewish community in the Netherlands. Given the exhibition’s educational ambitions, field trips for New York City public schools, particularly those in underfunded districts, will be subsidized, ensuring wider accessibility for students eager to learn about this significant chapter in history.

Continuing the Legacy of Anne Frank

The Anne Frank exhibition, which opened on January 27, 2025, coincided with Holocaust Remembrance Day, marking the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz. As interest in the exhibition continues to grow, its extension through October 31, 2025, reflects a deep yearning for historical engagement and understanding. With Queen Máxima’s visit, the exhibit gains an added layer of significance, motivating many to honor Anne Frank's enduring legacy and the teachings it imparts on humanity.

To learn more about the lives touched by Anne Frank's story and the importance of this exhibition, consider visiting the Center for Jewish History and engaging with its valuable resources.

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