In “Has Milwaukee forgotten Golda Meir?” in the November Chronicle, Cormac O’Duffy observes that the memory of Golda Meir, a Milwaukeean who came to play a major role in the development of the State of Israel in the 20th century, “seems to have faded from the city” where she grew up.
He expresses disappointment in finding young people here unable to identify this distinguished scion of the Milwaukee community, and suggests creating a “public memorial” and “other works to commemorate her.”
While I share his disappointment, I am skeptical that raising another public monument to honor Meir is likely to increase young citizens’ knowledge about her. I believe there would be more value in making her story part of our children’s education from the earliest years, as they study the history of Wisconsin.
Fortunately, a new resource, “Jewish Neighbors in Wisconsin: A Web-based Curriculum,” will soon be available for free on the Internet. A project of the Wisconsin Society for Jewish Learning, it is designed for use in fourth- through eighth-grade classrooms.
This curriculum features Meir as “The Girl from Milwaukee who became a Leader in Israel,” a poignant account with great potential for making a lasting impression.
The curriculum also tells the stories of other Wisconsin Jews who, from the late 18th century to the present, have made contributions in diverse fields. An accompanying teacher’s guide provides suggestions for learning activities, questions for discussion, and links to additional source materials.
The early education we provide our children should ensure that by the time they arrive at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s library as students, they are well informed about the remarkable woman for whom that building is named.
Lynne Kleinman
Whitefish Bay
Lynne Kleinman, Ph.D., a retired teacher and journalist, is currently working with the WSJL’s Wisconsin Small Jewish Communities History Project in developing “Jewish Neighbors in Wisconsin: A Web-based Curriculum.”
Loading ...