March 10, 2010
UNITED STATES HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL MUSEUM WELCOMES 30 MILLIONTH VISITOR
WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum welcomed its 30 millionth visitor since opening in April 1993.
Holocaust survivor and Museum volunteer Estelle Laughlin reflected on the milestone, “The Museum to me represents the conscience of our nation. It represents the conscience of humanity. Thirty million people who come here represent the voice and the witness of what America stands for, the best that is in us. I am always touched by their interest. I am always touched by their willingness to reach out and embrace all humanity because truly we cannot live in peace if others, if the rest of the world, is not in peace.” An interview with Ms. Laughlin can be found on the Museum’s Web site at www.ushmm.org.
The Museum brings the lessons of the Holocaust to millions of people from all backgrounds from around the country and the world. School children comprise approximately one-third of Museum visitation. Eighty-eight heads of state and more than 3,500 foreign officials from more than 132 countries have also passed through the Museum’s doors since its opening. In 2009 its Web site, translated into more than 10 languages, received more than 34 million visits from every country except North Korea.
A living memorial to the Holocaust, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum inspires citizens and leaders worldwide to promote human dignity, confront hatred and prevent genocide. Federal support guarantees the Museum’s permanent place on the National Mall, and its far-reaching educational programs and global impact are made possible by the generosity of donors nationwide.
