At LUCA School of Arts in Leuven, students had the unique opportunity to hear the stories of Koenraad Tinel and Simon Gronowski live. The presentation, organized by Stad Leuven, highlighted the unlikely friendship between a Holocaust survivor and the son of a collaborator.
Simon Gronowski, who escaped a deportation train to Auschwitz as an eleven-year-old boy, and Koenraad Tinel, whose family was closely linked to collaboration, stood on opposite sides of history. However, their meeting in 2012 led to a strong bond. Today, they shared their experiences of war, guilt, loss, forgiveness, and friendship with the young attendees.
Education alderman Lalynn Wadera emphasized the importance of this encounter: "Some stories will soon only be learned from books. Today, we can still hear them from people who were there themselves. The message that hate and polarization can be overcome through dialogue, empathy, and respect is more relevant than ever."
Koenraad Tinel stated that contact with young people is a significant motivator for him to continue sharing his story. "Although Simon and I grew up on opposite sides of history, our meeting in 2012 led to an unlikely friendship. I want to personally touch young people with my testimony, not to justify anything, but to do something beautiful with all the ugliness I have seen."
The presentation was musically accompanied by students from Kunsthumaniora Lemmens and moderated by radio maker Sien Wynants and journalist Kurt Snoekx. Teacher Marc Swevers from the Sint-Albertuscollege highlighted how the personal testimonies show that history continues to have an impact long after a war ends and how hope can emerge from a painful past.
The city of Leuven organized this event in collaboration with LUCA School of Arts, Kunsthumaniora Lemmens, and BeeldBeeld vzw. A second presentation for teachers and the general public will follow this evening.
