Identity, the Holocaust, and Resistance to Soviet Rule: A Ukrainian Jew’s Perspective.

Exploring the Identity of Ukrainian Jews Through History and Education

According to Espreso.tv: In a conversation about what it means to be a Ukrainian Jew, Yosyf Zisels—a Ukrainian Jew who was twice imprisoned for opposing the Soviet system—reflects on identity, the Holocaust, and the role of education in shaping collective memory. He highlights the complex identity struggles faced by Ukrainian Jews, noting that up to 1.5 million Jews perished on Ukrainian soil during World War II. For English-speaking readers unfamiliar with the region, Zisels is a prominent human rights activist and former Soviet dissident whose insights bridge East European Jewish history and contemporary Ukrainian society.

Zisels describes the Soviet regime as

“one of the manifestations of imperial, authoritarian, collective identity.”

He argues that war itself holds no intrinsic value, stressing instead the importance of peaceful coexistence and societal development. In 1940, Nazi Germany proposed that the USSR resettle 1.5 million Jews on Soviet territories—a precursor to later atrocities. The Final Solution was formalized at the Wannsee Conference in January 1942, marking one of the darkest chapters in Ukrainian and world history.

Zisels believes Ukrainian Jews are gradually maturing in their self-identification. He points out that Ukraine has one of the lowest levels of antisemitism in Europe, suggesting that constructive dialogue among different national and ethnic groups is possible.

Education and Collective Identity

He also emphasizes the importance of education in forming a collective identity rooted in the foundations of European civilization, including:

• Judeo-Christian morality
• Ancient Greek aesthetics
• Roman law

According to Zisels, these elements foster consciousness and mutual understanding across cultures.

Overall, this interview sheds light on key aspects of Ukrainian Jewish identity—past and present—while underscoring the significance of education and cultural dialogue in society. It highlights the need to preserve the memory of historical events that have shaped Ukrainian Jewish identity and demonstrates how education can drive cultural development. In the face of modern challenges, fostering constructive dialogue among ethnic groups is essential for shared societal progress and stronger intercultural ties in Ukraine.