(Houston, April 25, 2025) – In a moving display of unity, remembrance, and hope, Texas Southern University (TSU) and the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston came together on Wednesday evening, April 23, 2025, to host an unforgettable Zikaron BaSalon — a Hebrew phrase meaning "Memories in the Living Room." Designed as an intimate and personal approach to Holocaust remembrance, the evening created sacred space for survivors to share their stories in a powerful and heartfelt setting.

The gathering unfolded within the historic walls of The Art Gallery in Houston’s legendary Third Ward, where TSU leadership, Jewish faith leaders, and community members converged for an evening that intertwined storytelling, dialogue, and a shared commitment to preserve memory while forging pathways toward a brighter, united future. 

A Survivor’s Testament to Enduring Hope

At the heart of the evening was the courageous and deeply personal story of Bill Orlin, a spirited 93-year-old Holocaust survivor. At only seven years old when Nazi forces invaded his hometown of Brok, Poland, Bill endured unimaginable suffering — forced marches at gunpoint, the relentless pangs of hunger, and the constant threat of death. Yet, when asked how he survived those harrowing years, Bill’s answer resonated with simple, profound wisdom:
“I listened to my mother. She told me, ‘No matter what happens, stay positive.’”

Despite the unimaginable adversity, Bill’s journey led him to American shores where he became a U.S. citizen, a proud veteran, and a successful entrepreneur. Standing before the crowd, Bill offered a choice that rings true across generations:
"In life, you can choose to focus on hate—or you can choose to focus on hope. I choose hope." 

Honoring Shared Legacies, Building a Future Together

Texas Southern University President James W. Crawford III reflected on the deep, historical ties between the Black and Jewish communities — bonds born from shared struggles and a common commitment to justice.
"Texas Southern University is honored to stand alongside our partners at the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston in remembrance and unity," said President Crawford. "It is our responsibility to build upon the legacy of solidarity between our communities for generations to come."

TSU Board Chairman Brandon L. Simmons echoed this sentiment, invoking the memories of transformative leaders like Reverend Bill Lawson and Rabbi Roy Walter, whose life’s work laid the foundation for cross-cultural alliances:
"Their legacies remind us that alliances built on respect and shared humanity can endure and empower future generations."

A Night of Reflection and Action

Leaders on both sides emphasized that remembrance must also fuel action.
Erica Winsor, Public Affairs Officer at the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston, expressed gratitude for the partnership with TSU, noting:
"Tonight marks one of three successful events we’ve shared with Texas Southern University. Each one has been profoundly moving. Zikaron BaSalon reminds us that memory is not passive—it is a call to action."

Winsor underscored the importance of expanding these collaborations beyond Holocaust remembrance, bridging moments of African American history, such as Juneteenth, and beyond.

As the evening concluded, participants reaffirmed their commitment — not just to honor history, but to actively strengthen bonds across Houston’s vibrant and diverse communities. Together, they pledged to continue educating, remembering, and building a future rooted in mutual respect, resilience, and hope.

Houston Style Magazine celebrates and applauds the leaders, survivors, and community members who continue to show the world the profound power of unity, memory, and forward momentum.