Heritage Florida Jewish News - Central Florida's Independent Jewish Voice

Now through March 27, 2015, the Holocaust Center will be exhibiting, Herblock, the political cartoons of Pulitzer Prize winner Herbert Block. Sometimes called "the most feared editorial cartoonist in the country," Block started cartooning in his Chicago teens and went on to win four Pulitzer Prizes and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Herblock is produced by The Herb Block Foundation.

The goal of these exhibitions is to present Herblock's effort to preserve American's rights and freedoms through his political cartoons. These spare, folksy drawings made complex issues seem simple and moral choices clear. Syndicated throughout the country, his cartoons focused on important issues of the time, making Americans take note of the human folly that is politics.

On Thursday, Feb. 12, 2015 at 6 p.m., the Holocaust Center will present an informative and enlightening forum: Cartoons and Graphic Novels. It will be noted that with a focus on themes of education, civil rights and democracy, his art provides a unique vehicle to think about our social environment in new ways.

Holocaust graphic novels like "The Plot" and "Maus" offer an unusual opportunity to teach and learn in a format that is more accessible than traditional textbooks for some readers. The forum will discuss the use of these "comic" styles in advancing education and understanding.

On Feb. 26, the Holocaust Center will also present Herblock: The Black & The White, an HBO documentary that explores his life and his impact on American politics and journalism. This free program begins at 7 p.m. at the Holocaust Center.

Featuring testimonials from newscasters Ted Koppel and Tom Brokow, political satirists including Daily Show host Jon Stewart and comedian Lewis Black, and scores of others, the film celebrates Herblock's greatness as an artist, a thinker, and a wry commentator on the sometimes-bitter reality of the world around him.

Described by Time Magazine as "an earnest, well-made accounting of a remarkable and important life" the film offers both entertainment and food for thought. Through a deeper understanding of this man who was never fearful of challenging any institution or leader, we can learn much about how one person can truly have an impact in this world.

Both events are free of charge and open to the public. To reserve a seat for these programs, email Mitch Bloomer, mitchell@holocaustedu.org or call 407-628-0555 ext. 283.

Educators may earn in-service credit for attending. If you are unable to attend this forum, you can still take advantage of visiting the Herblock exhibit, which will be displayed until March 27, 2015 during normal business hours.

For more information about these events, future events, to learn more about the Holocaust Center or to make a donation, visit the Holocaust Center's website at http://www.holocaustedu.org.