Imperial War Museum by Emilia Goetsch


Last week’s trip to the Imperial War Museum was one of my favorites, particularly for the Holocaust Exhibit. As stated by Harry Rosewell in an opinion article for the Londonist, “Memorials to an event are usually placed close to where the event happened, or at least somewhere with a strong connection to it… Just because the Holocaust didn't occur in this country, it doesn't mean Brits didn't experience it. Many British soldiers played a role in liberating the camps towards the latter stages of the war. Many Holocaust survivors moved to Britain after the war end, in attempt to escape the scenes of their terror and rebuild their lives” (2018).
The permanent display at the museum was extremely moving for me. It was much more quiet than the other floors, likely because of the severity of this horrific event and the choice of light, color, stories, and artifacts. Those under the age of 14 were also not permitted. I found particular interest in the clothing displays, especially the large glass panel filled with shoes worn by victims. It was towards the end of the exhibit, after detailing the journey to concentration camps. Shoes were confiscated at the concentration camps, along with the very few personal items they had with. Each pair was worn by an individual who has a unique story to tell. Some pairs were worn more than others, some had names written in the soles, they varied in sizes but all belonged to people targeted by the Nazis. It was a solemn and chilling reminder that these were actual, living people that endured such unimaginable treatment less than 100 years ago. They serve as footprints for history, literally and figuratively.
London may not have directly been involved with the genocide, but this horrific event has influenced the city. Rosewell states, “London prides itself on being 'open' to everyone, no matter their race, gender, ethnicity, religion or culture. It's therefore fitting to have somewhere where people can spend a moment of introspection to focus on the horrifying consequences when people and places are 'closed', to show the importance of accepting all.” As previously stated, London served as a new home and refuge for those escaping the Holocaust. The diversity of the city is created from those who live in London and its 32 boroughs. Today, this continues to shape London’s image. As I reflect on my time in London, its extensive variety of people, cultures, identities, languages, etc. has stood out. Prior to this trip, I felt I had seen diverse cities like LA and NYC, but London now stands out far above the rest. Perhaps this is because of my extended time here, but I can walk out of flat and hear a handful of languages before arriving at Foundation House for class. Although this environment is not attributed solely because of the Holocaust, this event impacted the city. Moreover, this exhibit serves as reminder for the past, present, and future, like the rest of the Imperial War Museum. It serves as tribute to the lives lost and impacted by these world events than impacted the lives of millions.
*Photography was not allowed within the exhibit. I could not find pictures of the shoes online, so I am including a similar image.

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