On August 27, 2019, at the Memorial opening ceremony, Pastor Joahnnes Zink from Germany dropped to his knees to ask for forgiveness for murders of 90 Jewish kids in Bila Tserkva committed by his countryman 78 years ago. 

The opening ceremony was emotional. About 400+ people from 8 courtiers came with kids, despite the ceremony being in the middle of a very hot workday. Dignitary’s guest list was long and included Governor of Kyiv oblast, Chief Rabbi of Ukraine, Chief Rabbi of Holland, Director of Babyn Yar Memorial, local officials, pastors and archbishops. I am proud to say that Julia and Igor were also on the list of dignitaries and speakers, and Igor together with two head rabbis and the governor participated in unveiling the monument.

What seems to be an unrealistic idea of creating a Holocaust Memorial became a reality! There were only two major sponsors – Christenen voor Israel organization from Netherlands and RememberUs.org from Needham, MA. Not sure how the Christenen voor Israel is funded, but RememberUs.org is supported by us –the individual donations from members of our community.