In a groundbreaking collaboration between innovative tech companies and well-known Holocaust organizations, a transformative AI-driven experience called “Tell Me, Inge …” has been created to bring the stories of Holocaust survivors to life. By using virtual reality (VR) and extended reality (XR) tech, this interactive experience aims to foster empathy, educate the public about the Holocaust, and preserve survivors’ firsthand accounts.
At the heart of this project is Inge Auerbacher, a Holocaust survivor who went through the horrifying experiences of the Terezin Ghetto as a young girl. Thanks to advanced AI tech and carefully drawn 3D animations, viewers can now have a conversation with Inge, gaining a deep understanding of her trials and struggles.
This groundbreaking effort was made possible through a collaboration between Meta, a leading tech company, StoryFile, UNESCO, the World Jewish Congress, and the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany. Nick Clegg, Meta’s President of Global Affairs, believes that “Tell Me, Inge …” shows the power of tech to cultivate empathy and serve as a tool for Holocaust education and remembrance.
UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay stresses the urgency of hearing the voices of Holocaust survivors to combat denialism. The importance of preserving survivors’ stories is also emphasized by U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism, Ambassador Deborah Lipstadt, who recognizes the crucial role these accounts play in educating future generations and fighting antisemitism.
Gideon Taylor, President of the Claims Conference, highlights the importance of using innovative ideas and tech to combat Holocaust denialism and antisemitism. The collaborative effort between Meta, StoryFile, and Holocaust experts represents a collective commitment to preserving history and ensuring that the lessons of the past remain unforgettable.
The development of this immersive experience required close collaboration with oral historians and Holocaust experts. The program offers a unique approach to Holocaust education, using tech to instill positive values in children. Designed for children aged 13 and older, “Tell Me, Inge …” equips the next generation with the knowledge and empathy needed to combat hate and prejudice.
Meta’s investment in Holocaust education is praised by Ronald S. Lauder, President of the World Jewish Congress, who acknowledges the potential of immersive tech to reach new audiences and make a lasting impact. Stephen D. Smith, CEO of StoryFile, emphasizes the importance of tech serving humanity, and this project serves as proof of that belief.
Accessing the “Tell Me, Inge …” experience is simple and free. Viewers can engage with the immersive journey using a VR headset, desktop, or mobile device. The experience is available in both English and German, surpassing language barriers to reach individuals worldwide.
Meta’s commitment to integrating Holocaust remembrance and education into their efforts to build a safer future is commendable. By harnessing the power of tech, this AI-driven experience brings history to life and ensures that the stories of Holocaust survivors, like Inge Auerbacher, never fade from memory.
In a world where the lessons of the past are more important than ever, “Tell Me, Inge …” serves as a strong reminder of the importance of preserving and sharing the stories of those who witnessed the atrocities of the Holocaust. By engaging with this immersive AI-driven experience, viewers have the opportunity to learn, empathize, and contribute to the fight against Holocaust denialism and antisemitism.
As tech continues to advance, projects like “Tell Me, Inge …” offer a unique way to connect with history and promote understanding and compassion. Through the fusion of cutting-edge AI and captivating storytelling, this immersive experience builds a bridge between the past and present, ensuring that the voices of Holocaust survivors endure and remain etched in our collective memory.
