Regular updates my experience in Poland on my blog at http://dannyghitis.blogspot.com

WHY?
Participating in the March of the Living in 2000- as well as a life of Holocaust education- left me with many questions about Poland and its people’s involvement in the Holocaust. Years later I read an article in the New York Times describing the controversy over a disco that had been built at the border of Osweicim, in view of the camp. International pressure mounted and the disco was shut down, but it sparked a question I feel is in the West’s collective unconscious: “What happened with the Polish people after the Holocaust?”

I’ve been exposed ad infinitum to Jewish history following the Shoah, but was left wondering about the country where 3 million Jews had lived. How do Poles feel now about what happened then? Why would a person choose to live near a death camp, or do they have much choice? Questions abound, but it seems there are limited firsthand accounts beyond academic speculation.

I have no intention of providing concrete answers to my questions, nor do I think there are comprehensive conclusions to be drawn. All I have is my curiosity, my camera, and the desire to confront my uncertainty through experience. I believe complex images can help increase dialogue, and hopefully provide some understanding between people on opposite sides of the world.

HOW?
For several months I have been preparing, learning Polish, researching about the town of Oswiecim and the history of Auschwitz, and making contacts there. I expect to work in Poland from Feb 18 – May 1, but will stay longer if the funds last. I’m traveling with a colleague, Celia Tobin, who will handle the audio/video component; however, the emphasis is on my photographs. When the project is complete I expect to exhibit the images and participate in lectures on the subject. I will also be producing a short video, and written articles for online distribution, hopefully through prominent magazines I am in touch with. It is my hope that the project will be divulged among the Jewish community as well. I am willing to travel with the exhibit anywhere a hand is extended.

I’m a freelance photojournalist, so for this project I’m working independently, without the direct support of an organization or publication. Check out my website at dannyghitis.com. You can e-mail me at danny@dannyghitis.com or give me a call at 352.262.8222 (U.S.).