Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Why does CPIE not provide materials on the Nazi Holocaust?

A. Because of its scope and size, understanding the Holocaust is an essential part of understanding genocide. While covered in many secondary history textbooks, there are far better supplemental materials provided by independent organizations. CPIE has chosen to focus on non-Holocaust genocides and other civil injustices for two reasons:
1. Most textbooks fail even to mention most other non-Holocaust genocides.
2. There are limited supplemental materials on these other events, especially geared towards young adults.

Please see our digital library for lists of additional resources, including materials on the Holocaust.

Q. Is it appropriate to have students role-play an event of injustice?

A. Generally speaking, this type of activity should be avoided because of the possibility of internalizing victim and oppressor roles. Rather, empathy should be built by asking students to discuss questions such as:
"What would you to stop the government from killing people?"
"How would you try to change the opinions of your neighbors?"
"What could you do to provide aid to a targeted group?"