Kelly Hiebert

Westwood Collegiate, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Kelly Hiebert creates a learning environment where students are empowered to use historical knowledge to challenge, question, and discuss concerns that affect the world today. The Westwood Historical Society, a school organization led by Hiebert and his students at Westwood Collegiate, has created a documentary on the rise of hate and antisemitism in Canada. The project, which centred on youth voices and perspectives, gave students an opportunity to reflect on history and to discuss concerns affecting the country today.

A key component of the students’ exploration was interviewing nine Holocaust survivors and including their testimonies as part of the film. Students also spoke with historians, educational experts, and theologians, and they connected with multiple organizations to learn more about the history and legacy of the Holocaust. Through studying historical injustices and discussing current examples of intolerance, students gained an appreciation for democracy and the desire to protect humanity. This documentary film will be a record of survivors’ testimonies and an important educational resource for other students, inspiring them to stand up and speak out for human rights.