Voices of Tolerance: Youth Forum on Belonging

Overview

Voices of Tolerance: Youth Forum on Belonging event brings together young people to reflect on the importance of historical remembrance, tolerance, and the fight against discrimination. Through a series of four interactive sessions, participants will engage in discussions, activities, and workshops that encourage critical thinking, cultural awareness, and dialogue around shared values and moral choices.

The event also aims to inspire young people to take action through national and transnational youth initiatives, promoting a stronger sense of belonging and respect for diversity across Europe.

Event Programme

16 May 2025 – AY Institute, Lithuania

09:40 – 10:00 | Presentation of the Memory Makers Project

10:00 – 10:45 | Workshop 1: Rescuers of the World: Stories of Jewish Rescue in Lithuania

10:45 – 10:55 | Break

10:55 – 11:40 | Workshop 2: Romany Bacht: Roma History and Culture

11:40 – 11:55 | Break

11:55 – 12:40 | Workshop 3: (Not) Childish Stories of the Ghetto

12:40 – 13:00 | Break

13:00 – 13:45 | Workshop 4: To Punish or to Forgive: Reflections on Holocaust Perpetrators

13:45 – 14:00 | Closing of the Event: Final Thoughts and Ideas for Future Youth Initiatives

Why it Matters

As Europe continues to face challenges of intolerance and discrimination, remembering the lessons of history is more important than ever. By exploring stories of rescue, survival, and moral courage, this event empowers young people to recognize the dangers of hatred and exclusion. Through dialogue and reflection, participants will be equipped to build more inclusive societies and ensure that the past is never forgotten.

What You’ll Experience

Four interactive educational workshops exploring real stories of courage, survival, and moral choices during World War II
Hands-on activities that encourage critical thinking, empathy, and discussions about tolerance and belonging
A creative space to reflect, share ideas, and start shaping future youth initiatives focused on historical memory and human rights

About the Organisers

AY Institute is a Lithuanian non-governmental organization dedicated to empowering young people through education, civic engagement, and human rights advocacy. As part of the Memory Makers project, AY Institute organizes the WP2 event to strengthen historical remembrance, foster critical reflection, and promote tolerance among youth. Through initiatives like this, AY Institute works to counter antisemitism, anti-Roma discrimination, racism, and all forms of hatred by connecting the lessons of history to today’s challenges.

For more details, please reach out to the event coordinator:

Deimantė Radišauskaitė
deimante.r@akt.lt