How does a young girl’s private diary, written while hiding in a secret annex, transform into one of the most influential books in human history? And how did it nearly never see the light of day?

On Thursday, July 16, you have a rare opportunity to discover the untold stories behind Anne Frank’s legacy. We invite you to a special lecture featuring Gillian Perry, the Co-founder and 26-year Executive Director of the Anne Frank Trust UK. Through her decades of dedicated work, Gillian had the extraordinary privilege of personally meeting the people who knew Anne. Now, she is bringing those deeply personal insights, history, and inspiration to our community.

This program is far more than a standard history lesson. It is a journey tracking a magical thread that has woven itself around the world for generations. Gillian will guide the audience through the Frank family’s background in Frankfurt and their sudden, harrowing flight to Amsterdam after the Nazi rise to power. She will also reveal the fierce, hard-fought battle to get Anne’s diary published in 1947, showing just how close the world came to never hearing her voice. Finally, attendees will learn how Anne’s father, Otto Frank, turned unspeakable grief into a global movement by founding the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam.

Anne Frank’s story remains a vital beacon of hope, tolerance, and human rights. This program is designed for adults and children aged 12 and older. Parents and grandparents are highly encouraged to bring the next generation, as it offers a powerful, accessible way for teenagers to connect with history through the eyes of a peer who changed the world.

The event takes place on Thursday, July 16, beginning with a welcome reception from 6:30 - 7 PM, followed by the main program and lecture from 7 - 8 PM. While admission is entirely free, seating is limited and expected to fill up quickly due to the unique nature of this presentation.

Register today on the Boulder JCC website and join us for an unforgettable evening that promises to inspire, educate, and connect generations.