Remembering Acts of Courage: The Summer Camp in Kryoneri In the serene mountain village of Kryoneri, Greece, a remarkable story of bravery and solidarity unfolded during the dark days of the German occupation. The villagers, driven by an unwavering sense of humanity, sheltered the seven-member Kamhi family, a Jewish family, in their homes and a small cave in the surrounding mountains. This act of extraordinary courage, sustained over several years, was crucial for the Kamhi family's survival. The villagers' actions were fraught with danger; discovery would have led to the destruction of Kryoneri and a massacre of its inhabitants. In 2018, two families from Kryoneri were honored with the title "Righteous Among the Nations" for their heroic deeds. This recognition highlighted the profound impact of their bravery and the importance of remembering such acts of civil courage.
The summer camp in Kryoneri served as a living tribute to this history. Participants embarked on a journey of discovery, engaged with local residents, and uncovered historical sites, such as the former hideout in the mountains. Through practical work, they cleared paths to these significant locations, ensuring that the memory of Jewish persecution and resistance against the Nazi occupation remained alive at the local level. Beyond the physical labor, the camp participants delved into the history of the Holocaust and the politics of remembrance. They explored contemporary forms of engagement against antisemitism and reflected on their own roles in addressing current challenges. The stories and testimonies from Kryoneri provided a powerful example of how solidarity could protect lives, inspiring participants to consider their own actions in the face of adversity. The summer camp also supported the ongoing work of remembrance in Kryoneri and the Corinth region. This included maintaining local topography, such as hiking trails and memory paths, and fostering knowledge exchange about the German occupation in Greece and its aftermath, particularly the history of Jewish persecution and its impact on present-day Jewish life.
By honoring the descendants of those affected and promoting European exchange and understanding, the camp strengthened the bonds within Europe. They aimed to build sustainable civil society relationships and raise awareness of contemporary forms of antisemitism, encouraging active engagement against it. Through these efforts, the summer camp in Kryoneri not only preserved the memory of past atrocities but also promoted a culture of remembrance and solidarity that was vital for addressing the challenges of today.