Educator Workshop At the Virginia Holocaust Museum Join us for an immersive workshop exploring an often-overlooked chapter of World War II history, led by the author of “The Night Sparrow,” Shelly Sanders. Discover the stories of Jewish women who fought against the Nazis in the Soviet Union—the only nation to permit women in combat roles during the war. Serving as snipers, pilots, navigators, gunners, and interpreters, these women faced both the brutality of war and antisemitism within their own ranks, as well as denial from Soviet authorities who refused to acknowledge Jewish persecution. Drawing on her historical novel “The Night Sparrow,” inspired by true events and people—the author will guide participants through this hidden history. The novel follows Elena Bruskina, a Jewish university student who joins the Red Army as a sniper after her family is murdered, only to be ordered to give up her rifle and become an interpreter, pulling her into a secret hunt for a high-ranking Nazi. Participants will develop classroom-ready lesson plans using primary sources, examine how Soviet propaganda mobilized women and manipulated emotion, and make connections to misleading news today. Educators will leave with practical resources to strengthen students’ critical thinking, research, presentation, and writing skills. This workshop is free for educators and includes: Breakfast, Coffee, and Lunch Classroom resources and a copy of “The Night Sparrow” A certificate of attendance Register HERE! Deadline for Registration is March 3rd, 2026 A limited number of scholarships are available for teachers 120+ miles from Richmond. Scholarships are to help cover travel, housing, and meals. Please contact Megan Ferenczy mferenczy@vaholocaust.org to apply.
We remember. Our museum uses the history of genocide to teach the dangers of prejudice and indifference.
