Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History Worked with Three Central Classes Throughout this School Year

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. (April 24, 2025) – Opening tomorrow, a new art installation at Philadelphia’s Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History (The Weitzman) features photographs and speeches by 90+ sophomore, junior, and senior students from Philadelphia’s Central High School that address change they’d like to see in the world.

Open to the public April 25-May 26 on The Weitzman’s second and third floor atriums, “Voices for Change: Students Speak Up!” is the culmination of a project that empowers young people to use their voices against injustice.

In creating their photographs and speeches, students considered this quote by Rabbi Joachim Prinz at the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom: “The most urgent, the most disgraceful, the most shameful, and the most tragic problem is silence.” In addition, Rachel Utain-Evans, a Philadelphia based photographer, gave the students a tutorial on capturing powerful photographs that align with each student’s speech.

Drawing inspiration from historic speeches, they critically examined the world around them, reflected on their own experiences and values, and identified issues they are passionate about changing. 

The exhibition features the students’ photographs on the walls, with recordings of their speeches available via QR code / website access.

“This project aligns with our mission to inspire reflection, dialogue, and action in the pursuit of a more just and compassionate world,” said Rebecca Krasner, Director of Education at the Weitzman. “This is the second year that we’ve worked with Central students. We continue to be impressed by their intelligence and passion, and are pleased to showcase their thoughtful work.”

Krasner collaborated with Sasha Swerdlow, Central High School’s Advanced Placement English Literature and Public Speaking teacher, on this project that involved Central’s three public speaking classes.

A friends, family, and press opening event on Wednesday, April 23 features speeches from three students.

All of the photographs, writing, and audio of the students’ speeches will be available for online viewing.

In keeping with the purpose of this project to promote civil discourse and civic engagement, several works on display express views that are not consistent with The Weitzman’s positions and policies.

Learn more.

Download High-Resolution Photos

Exhibition and Opening Event Photos
Credit: Christopher Brown / Shoot from Within

ABOUT THE WEITZMAN NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AMERICAN JEWISH HISTORY
Established in 1976, and situated on Philadelphia’s Independence Mall, the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History is the only museum in the nation dedicated exclusively to exploring and interpreting the American Jewish experience. The Weitzman presents educational programs and experiences that preserve, explore, and celebrate the history of Jews in America. Standing as a joyful bulwark against antisemitism, bigotry, and hate, The Weitzman serves to connect Jews more closely to their heritage and to inspire in people of all backgrounds a greater appreciation for the diversity of the American Jewish experience and the freedoms to which Americans aspire. www.theweitzman.org
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