A recent well-publicized study found that 66% of millennials, and 41% of American adults, cannot even say what Auschwitz was. It’s this sort of data that has prompted several European nations to make secondary school visits to WW2 death camps mandatory – so that the lessons of the Holocaust are not forgotten.

“The Cure For Hate” contributes to these efforts by taking the viewer on a powerful journey through Auschwitz they might otherwise never experience – and frames the Holocaust as stark reminder of where unchecked hate can lead, while exploring the roots of hate and how to effect change.

As a result of my work on the film, “Healing From Hate”, I’ve spent the past several years now immersed in the world of anti-Semitism, violent extremism and hate group activity. Through this, I’ve come to believe that hate is not intrinsic – I believe it’s learned.

I’ve seen that, under the “right” set of conditions, people can be taught, can be encouraged, can be manipulated to hate – to turn their own insecurities, fears, disempowerment & shame outwards, and to project it onto an objectified “other”.

The need to belong; the need to feel empowered; the need to rid oneself of shame are all forceful ones – but the capacity to see others as “inhuman” requires us to disassociate with the humanity, and the compassion, within ourselves.

I believe this is where the work is, and this is where the questions need to be asked – asked of our selves; asked of one another; asked of the viewer of this film.

In this way, The Cure For Hate allows for a deep dig into how young men get into – and out of – hate groups. But it also provides the opportunity to place the contemporary proliferation of hate group activity and anti-Semitism in a historical context. There are many lessons to be taken from the Holocaust – lessons that have come at a terrible price. As Auschwitz serves to starkly remind us – when hate is left unchecked; when it’s normalized; it can lead to monstrous and inhumane acts of cruelty and violence.

It’s been an honor to work with and learn from such an inspiring group of people. In the midst of disturbing and uncertain times, they’ve shown me – time and time again – that there’s a hopeful way forward. I believe this film captures and conveys that crucial message and spirit.