Sierra Leone’s Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, has engaged the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in discussions aimed at forging a strategic partnership to support civic education initiatives in Sierra Leone.

During his visit, Minister Bah toured the museum’s exhibitions, which detail the roots and consequences of the Holocaust including the dangers of hatred, misinformation, dehumanization, silence, and apathy in the face of authoritarianism.

Describing the experience as “moving, shattering, and deeply impactful,” Minister Bah stressed the relevance of the lessons drawn from the Holocaust to Sierra Leone’s efforts in strengthening democracy and citizenship.

 

“These exhibits are a reminder of the very possibility of evil and the importance of memory, history, and active citizenship,” he said. “As we advance President Julius Maada Bio’s vision for a peaceful, democratic Sierra Leone, this partnership will strengthen our work in civic education and public engagement.”

The proposed collaboration will focus on educational programs that promote tolerance, human rights, and democratic values, with the goal of equipping Sierra Leone to resist the forces of hate and division.