Polish Jews Hope To Raze Historic Warsaw Ghetto Building
The Jewish community of Warsaw is advancing plans to demolish one of its historical, ghetto-era buildings in favor of new offices.
The Jewish community favors a plan which would replace the White House on Twarda Street with a 20-story building where the community – which has tripled in size since the fall of Communism – could accommodate more members during celebrations and on weekends, according to the Associated Press, .
But the Association of Protectors of Warsaw’s Cultural Heritage has filed a petition to the Cultural Ministry asking that the building – one of the few that survived the German onslaught on the old Warsaw Ghetto – be declared a historical site. The ministry is expected to decide on the issue in the coming months.
“An opinion that I can’t agree with is that the building is more important than the future of the community,” Andrzej Zozula, vice president of the Jewish community, told the Associated Press.
Poland’s Chief Rabbi Michael Schudrich also supports the plan to replace the building with a modern structure.
The white building reportedly is in a clear state of decay. Though it has a cellar that dates back more than two centuries, most of the building is about 130 years old and has undergone major transformations since.
I’m personally matching all gifts to the Forward, up to $36,000. Can I match your gift now?
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
Support our mission to tell the Jewish story fully and fairly.
