“One Shape, Two Symbols: The History Behind the Swastika and the Hakenkreuz” will be the topic of discussion by Jeff Kelman, May 18, 2025, at 9:30 AM, LIVE IN PERSON at Temple Beth Abraham. The Southern New Hampshire Jewish Men’s Club is proud to sponsor this important and informative presentation.
Temple Beth Abraham member Jeff Kelman grew up in Andover, MA and spent his high school years at Gann Academy (The New Jewish High School of Greater Boston) in Waltham. Jeff went on to continue his undergraduate studies at the University of Nevada – Las Vegas (UNLV) before enrolling at Gratz College where he earned his Master of Arts in Holocaust and Genocide Studies in 2021
Jeff’s research primarily focuses on symbols of hate and the violence stemming from state-sanctioned propaganda and imagery. Jeff will begin by explaining the misconception (and its’ origin) of various kinds of crosses and symbols including the Hakenkreuz, Swastika and the Christian Cross. You will learn how different religious organizations and governments have adopted various symbols (even Coca-Cola!) over the years and how these symbols in some cases led to hate, violence and antisemitism. Jeff will also offer suggestions about what you can do about what you have learned.