Meeting with Hoekstra and Holocaust Museum

For today's activities we went to visit our congressman and went to see the Holocaust museum. Our visit with Peter Hoekstra was no less than expected. He came in to see us for about thirty minuets so we could thank him for our inauguration tickets and ask him a few questions. As I anticipated he answered our questions straight forward and fast paced. It was nice to see him and get some insight on him face to face. Now the Holocaust museum, that was spectacular and very disturbing. I can't explain to you the feeling you get walking through the museum and I don't intend to try. If I did I would definitely undermined the purpose, feeling, and story of the souls the museum is dedicated to. All I can say is you MUST go see this before you die! Overall it was a good day and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.
-Gabriel Herman

Today we visited the Holocaust museum, and it lived up to its reputation. The people viewing the exhibits were silent, either out of respect or out of shock. Either way, it served as a tribute to the millions who died in the genocide, as well as a warning to the future. Unfortunately, though, the warning was unheard. Whenever an atrocity like this occurs, everyone says "never again," as if simply making the statement will alter the future. After World War II, we pledged that never again would we allow these crimes to be committed. And we did the same thing after Rwanda. And Saddam Hussein's chemical bombings. These kinds of things are still happening, such as in Darfur. That was all I could think during the visit: This isn't over. World War II is over and the Holocaust is over, but genocide is not over despite the constant cries of "never again." Hate is not over. Violence isn't over. These crimes may be committed by different people for different purpose, but it's all the same in the end. If you ever visit the museum, do not view it through the eyes of a twenty-first century person looking at the past. Look at it as if it were still happening, because as with the rest of history, the world needs to learn from its mistakes.
-Chris Enders

It was a very exciting experience meeting our representative, Peter Hoekstra. He answered questions about world events, special committees, education, Michigan, and his future. Our questions were given in-depth answers and we were given insight into the world of politics. We were very fortunate to have met with him. As we were leaving, other politicians were gathering for a meeting and he also had multiple meetings before we arrived. The staff was helpful and friendly; it was a welcoming place. I was very impressed with our meeting and learning more about Peter Hoekstra.
-Sara Jones

Today we visited the National Holocaust Museum. As we went through the exhibit; looked at pictures; and watched the videos; the reality of this event came to life. After we finished walking through the museum we were able to meet with a survivor of Auschwitz, Helen Goldkind. She was originally from Czechoslovakia and was the only survivor along with her sister from her family of nine. She urged us to never let a child suffer the way the children did in the Holocaust. Her advice made me think about the events going on in Darfur. I realized that we need to act now to stop this situation that is identical to the Holocaust.
-Liz Rich