Memory is a precious yet fragile asset. Remembering the past and using it as a lesson for the present is a collective responsibility, especially in an age where denialism and hate speech thrive on social media.
Each year, January 27 marks the International Holocaust Remembrance Day, established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2005. The memory of the Holocaust, already challenged by the passage of time, now faces additional obstacles—chief among them, misinformation. Conspiracy theories and anti-Semitic memes risk normalizing dangerous language, eroding the significance of historical memory.
The fine line between respect and sensationalism
In an era dominated by the pursuit of online engagement, the risk of turning sensitive topics like the Holocaust into viral marketing tools is real. Addressing memory requires responsibility. It is not just about “sharing” content but about using communication tools to foster profound and lasting reflection.
A noteworthy example is the #WeRemember campaign, launched by the World Jewish Congress, which encourages users to post photos with the hashtag to commemorate Holocaust victims. By directly involving users, the campaign not only keeps the memory alive but also creates a sense of collective belonging.
In contrast, the Holocaust Challenge is a controversial trend that emerged on TikTok a few years ago. Users posted videos in which they dressed and applied makeup to portray Holocaust victims, often narrating fictional personal stories set in concentration camps. Many of these posts included dramatic effects and emotional soundtracks, with the intent, according to some creators, of raising awareness about the Holocaust.
The trend drew criticism, with many accusing participants of trivializing the Shoah, reducing it to a viral content strategy to gain likes and visibility. At the same time, the phenomenon sparked a broader debate about the role of social media in historical memory. While the Holocaust Challenge may have aimed to educate younger generations, its superficial and often sensationalistic approach was widely criticized.
Educating about memory through social media
Alongside awareness campaigns, it is essential to educate users on recognizing and combating online hate. Initiatives involving schools, universities, and non-profits can provide practical tools for interpreting digital language, distinguishing reliable sources, and effectively responding to discriminatory discourse.
The use of visual storytelling, infographics, and short documentaries creates impactful content capable of leaving a lasting impression. Projects like the “Treno della memoria”, which annually engages more and more students, transform memory into an immersive, participatory experience.
An evocative example is the documentary LILIANA. Premiered last year at the Rome Film Festival and directed by Ruggero Gabbai, the film recounts the testimony of lifelong senator Liliana Segre. It weaves historical narrative with the contemporary portrait of one of Italy’s most influential cultural figures.
The future of narratives
Communication campaigns have a dual purpose. On the one hand, they preserve the memory of past atrocities. On the other hand, social media transforms remembrance into a message of resilience and resistance against hate. Discussing these topics on digital platforms is not an exercise in visibility but an act of collective responsibility.
Liliana Segre’s decision to forgo attending this year’s event at the Holocaust Memorial serves as a poignant reminder that time does not wait. It is up to us to carry forward the legacy of memory. Her weariness, both physical and symbolic, represents the burden of a mission that cannot rest on the shoulders of a few. The challenge lies in ensuring that this memory not only survives but also becomes a catalyst for building a more aware and compassionate society.
