M.S. St. Louis Survivor Speaks During Kristallnacht Commemoration

November 10, close to one hundred people gathered to hear about the M.S. St. Louis from one of its youngest passengers, Sonja Maier Geismar, during the Kristallnacht Commemoration. Guests also watched a compelling documentary entitled “COMPLICIT” about the events and enjoyed complimentary coffee and bagels.

Along with over 900 other Jewish travelers, Sonja and her family expected to find safety in Cuba. But something went very wrong. If you missed the event, you can read Sonja’s speech here.

Sonja told her story in front of a letter written to her father from the ship’s captain, Gustav Schroeder. He thanked her father for being on an all-night suicide watch as 200 passengers said they rather “kill themselves than be sent back to Germany.”

Guests gave the speaker a standing ovation. The movie was excellent and people were moved. Take a look at some of the photos from the event! 

[ngg src=”galleries” ids=”2″ display=”basic_slideshow”]