As part of the commemoration of Genocide Awareness and Prevention Month (April), the Friends of THGC have funded the Texas Holocaust and Genocide Commission to host a video competition open to all Texas students in grades 6-12. The theme for 2013 and 2014 was “The Upstander and the Bystander,” the goal of the contest was to help others understand the difference between being a bystander who turns away, letting others come to harm, and an upstander who acts to help others.

The 2014 Video Contest was expanded to award Gold, Silver and Bronze scholarships in two categories; grades 6-8 and grades 9-12. Over 255 students participated in 2014 with a total of 27 award entries. The Friends received the following note from St. Stephen’s Episcopal School.

In 2015 the contest participation increased by approximately 77% resulting from wider publication and visits to different ISD Social Studies departments. Teachers were excited that the Friends of THGC provided a student involvement program where they provide solutions to problems they observe in their everyday lives.

Commissioner Martin Fein with 1st Place – 2013 Video Contest Winners

Each year, the Texas Holocaust and Genocide Commission conducts a video contest as part of Genocide Awareness Month, April, open to all Texas students. Submitted videos are between one to two-and-a-half minutes long and focus on year’s theme. The 2012 and 2013 theme was “The Upstander and the Bystander,” and the 2015 theme was “Creating a More Just World.”

The 2013 Texas Holocaust and Genocide Commission video contest winners were EvieEngram, Liza Marhanka, and Julianne Toates from Bruce Kirsch’s class at BishopLynch High School in Dallas.

Congratulations to the winners on their wonderful video that can be found on the THGC website. The Friends thanks Fran and Mark Berg and Dr. Kelli and Martin Fein who underwrote this scholarship program.

2015 Video Contest Winners (Grades 6th – 8th)

2015 Video Contest Winners (Grades 9th – 12th)

2014 Video Contest Winners (Grades 6th – 8th)

Gold Key Winners

Silver Key Winners

Bronze Key Winners

2014 Video Contest Winners (Grades 9th – 12th)

Gold Key Winners

Silver Key Winners

Bronze Key Winners

In 2015 the contest participation increased by approximately 77% resulting from wider publication and visits to different ISD Social Studies departments. Teachers are excited that the Friends of THGC provide a student involvement program where they provide solutions to problems they observe in their everyday lives.

The 2015 theme was “Creating a More Just World.” 450 students participated across the state. Students were able to express their ideas of what they felt could alleviate situations that exist and require radical change. The Friends awarded $7,000 for 47 gold, silver and bronze awards. The impact to students through their involvement will resonate as cause to be addressed as they progress toward adulthood.