Chabad UF presents Auschwitz survivor Sora Vigorito on Jan. 21
Press release from Chabad UF
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – As the world marks International Holocaust Remembrance Day, the Gainesville campus and greater community are invited to a rare and historic evening of remembrance, testimony, and reflection with Auschwitz survivor Sora Vigorito, one of the few remaining survivors of Dr. Josef Mengele’s infamous twin experiments.
Tonight, Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 7:30 PM (doors open 6:45 PM), this powerful featured event will be held at the Chabad UF Jewish Community Center, 2021 NW 5th Avenue, Gainesville.
Born Ute (Sora) Seiler in Berlin in 1941, Sora was deported to Auschwitz as a young child along with her twin sister. She was subjected to brutal medical experimentation by the Nazis under the supervision of Dr. Josef Mengele, the so-called “Angel of Death.” Her twin sister did not survive. Today, Sora courageously shares her firsthand testimony of survival, loss, and the faith that has given her strength, resilience, and purpose in the decades since the Holocaust.
With Holocaust survivors rapidly dwindling in number, tonight’s program represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hear direct testimony from history itself. Chabad UF Jewish Center, through its Holocaust Education initiatives, emphasize the urgency of bearing witness now, while survivors can still speak for themselves.
“This evening is not only about remembering the past,” said Rabbi Berl Goldman, Director of Chabad UF. “It is about educating this generation, confronting antisemitism and hate, and recommitting ourselves to humanity, dignity, and moral responsibility. Hearing Sora’s story in her own words is profoundly moving and deeply necessary.”
The program will also feature a special musical performance, including the stirring theme from Schindler’s List, adding a reflective and emotional dimension to the evening.
The event is free and open to the public. Donations are appreciated to support Holocaust Education initiatives.
RSVP is required at: www.JewishGator.com/HRD