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THE DIASPORA: YOUR JOURNEY
The journey of the Jewish diaspora has had an immense impact on the development of modern world politics, economics and culture. Many modern Jews can trace their roots back to distant lands far from their current home. These journeys permeate generations, passed down through treasured stories, objects and photographs. Where did your family's journey begin? What is your diaspora story? Share your journey below and include a family photograph, home video or image of a special heirloom that represents your own Story of the Jews.

Harry Schwarz

Agoura Hills, CA, United States

I, Hersz Szwarz (Harry Schwarz) traveled to Ellis Island aboard the US General Hersey in 1949. My parents were leaving from a DP camp in Landsberg, Germany, where I was born. We were all holocaust survivors, searching for a land free from Jewish persecution. What my parents found was then was an America suspicious of Jews as Communists. We were soon moved from NY to Cincinnati, because that is where our sponsor, Mr. Schumacher resided. 15 years later we moved to Los Angeles, where I now reside. When I look at my naturalization papers I realize just how lucky I am to live in America.

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