The Mobile Museum of Tolerance is the Simon Wiesenthal Center’s newest educational initiative, bringing world-class learning experiences to communities across the state of Illinois. The purpose of the MMOT is to inspire people of all ages and backgrounds, empowering them to raise their voices and combat anti-Semitism, bullying, racism, hate, and intolerance and to promote human dignity.
Modeled after the Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center’s successful “Tour for Humanity” bus, which has visited hundreds of schools across Canada since launching in 2013, the MMOT is the first of its kind in the United States. MMOT utilizes innovative technology and interactive lessons to bring its message of tolerance directly to Illinois communities. In addition to serving middle and high school students, the MMOT is an educational resource for teachers, faith groups, law enforcement agencies, and businesses, as well as community and government leaders.
With a plan to visit around 150 schools and communities each year, the MMOT hopes to inspire thousands of Illinoisans to stand up to hate and strive toward positive social change.
The Simon Wiesenthal Center is a Jewish global human rights organization researching the Holocaust and hate in a historic and contemporary context. The Center confronts anti-Semitism, hate, and terrorism, promotes human rights and dignity, stands with Israel, defends the safety of Jews worldwide, and teaches the lessons of the Holocaust for future generations. The Center’s Midwest Office manages the regional fundraising efforts, educational programming, and activism from our offices in Chicago, IL. As an NGO, we work closely with State and Local Elected Officials, the Illinois State Board of Education, law enforcement agents, and community leaders to further educational opportunities for students and professionals, alike. From traveling exhibitions to panel discussions, we have hosted educational events at the State Capitol, the Harold Washington Library, and Chicago City Hall. With partners across the professional spectrum, we have collaborated with the Consulate General of Israel to the Midwest, the DuSable Museum of African American History, Edelman, Facebook, the Chicago Council of Global Affairs, the Decalogue Society of Lawyers, and other community activists. In addition to our constant monitoring, tracking, and alerting authorities about the use of the Internet and social media by bigots and haters, we worked closely with faith leaders, their congregations, and college campuses to further educate the next generation. Our latest and most audacious project is the Mobile Museum of Tolerance, which we know continues our mission while elevating the level of access and tools needed to truly create a future generation void of hate.
