New York City Launches “Summer of Reflection” to Honor Anne Frank’s Legacy

By: Fern Sidman

In a moving tribute to the life, courage, and enduring voice of Anne Frank, the Anne Frank House, in partnership with the Center for Jewish History in Union Square, has announced the launch of a major summer initiative entitled “Summer of Reflection: The Legacy of Anne Frank.” The program, unveiled ahead of what would have been Anne’s 96th birthday, centers on education, remembrance, and the fight against rising antisemitism.

Beginning on June 12, the anniversary of Anne Frank’s birth, and continuing through the summer, the Anne Frank House will distribute 10,000 free copies of Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl across New York City. The initiative is made possible through the generous support of Bank of America and UJA-Federation of New York and aims to reach students, families, and readers of all backgrounds—ensuring Anne’s voice continues to educate and inspire new generations.

An Expansive Educational Effort Across the City

To maximize impact, the project brings together a coalition of civic institutions: New York City Public Schools, Union Square Partnership, and the city’s three public library systems—the New York Public Library (NYPL), Brooklyn Public Library (BPL), and Queens Public Library (QPL). Starting Thursday, June 12, educators and staff from Anne Frank The Exhibition will personally distribute the books at various locations from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

In addition, the book will be added to the permanent collections of participating libraries and schools, preserving access for future students and readers. On June 13, the day after Anne’s birthday, Anne Frank The Exhibition will offer free admission from 2:45 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. That offering will be extended on select Friday afternoons in July and August—beginning July 11—where up to 250 library card holders can gain complimentary access to the exhibition on a first-come, first-served basis.

Anne’s Words, More Vital Than Ever

Ronald Leopold, Executive Director of the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, emphasized the urgency of sharing Anne’s story in today’s turbulent climate. “Anne Frank’s diary is not just a historical document; it is a beacon of hope and a call to action,” he said. “With antisemitism and group hatred again on the rise, her message is more essential now than ever. Her words inspire us to fight injustice, to stand for human dignity, and to never forget the lessons of the past.”

Bank of America’s New York City president, José Tavarez, echoed this sentiment. “This expansion of our support for Anne Frank The Exhibition and this ambitious book distribution will ensure a new generation connects personally with Anne’s life and message,” he said. UJA-Federation CEO Eric S. Goldstein added, “At a time of rising hatred targeting the Jewish community, we hope young readers will find strength in Anne’s courage and understand the profound importance of standing up against hate.”

Library Leaders and Educators Join the Call

The city’s public library presidents jointly issued a statement underscoring the educational and civic importance of the initiative. “By sharing Anne Frank’s story with thousands of New Yorkers, we hope to inspire young readers to deepen their understanding and experience the power of reading, reflection, and empathy,” said Linda E. Johnson (BPL), Anthony W. Marx (NYPL), and Dennis M. Walcott (QPL).

Melissa Aviles-Ramos, Chancellor of New York City Public Schools, spoke candidly about the project’s personal resonance. “As a former English teacher, I’ve seen the lasting impact Anne Frank’s story has on students. Bringing her voice into our schools during a time of increasing antisemitism is essential in our mission to create inclusive and empathetic communities.”

Julie Stein, Executive Director of the Union Square Partnership, noted that Union Square’s public programming has long championed cultural and civic engagement. “This summer, the Summer of Reflection invites students, families, and visitors alike to take part in a deeply meaningful experience.”

A Museum Experience Like No Other

The Anne Frank Exhibition itself is a groundbreaking initiative—the first time the Anne Frank House has recreated the Secret Annex and presented a full-scale museum experience outside of Amsterdam. Located in over 7,500 square feet of space in Union Square, the exhibition leads visitors through Anne’s life, from her early childhood in Frankfurt to her years in hiding and her tragic death in Bergen-Belsen at age 15.

Through immersive displays—including four gallery spaces filled with soundscapes, animation, historical footage, and over 100 original objects from the Anne Frank House’s archives—visitors experience Anne’s life not only as a tragic victim of the Holocaust but as a vibrant, thoughtful young girl with dreams, fears, and an unbreakable spirit.

Among the rare artifacts on display: Anne Frank’s first photo album, a typed and handwritten invitation to a film night in her home (as Jews were barred from cinemas), and handwritten verses she penned in friends’ poetry albums. Many of these objects have never before been shown in the United States.

Mobilizing Memory to Combat Hate

Dr. Gavriel Rosenfeld, President of the Center for Jewish History, emphasized the exhibition’s role in confronting contemporary hate. “Anne’s story is a mirror reflecting the continued dangers of antisemitism today. Her words challenge us to replace silence with courage, and indifference with humanity. Through this summer’s program, we reaffirm our commitment to using Jewish history as a force against the hatred that continues to threaten our communities.”

Advisors to the exhibition include Michael S. Glickman, CEO of jMUSE, and Dr. Doyle Stevick of the Anne Frank Center at the University of South Carolina, the exhibition’s U.S. educational partner. Their guidance ensures that this experience is not only educational but transformative for all who attend.

A Summer of Reflection—and Action

Anne Frank The Exhibition is now open to the public and will remain in New York City through October 31, 2025. Thanks to the support of civic partners, educators, and philanthropists, thousands of young people will now encounter Anne’s story in new and powerful ways.

At a time when antisemitism is again surging across the globe, Anne Frank’s diary remains a testament to hope, truth, and the resilience of the human spirit. Her voice, preserved against all odds, now calls on us to reflect—and to act.