Holocaust Memorial Monument To Be Installed At Fairfield University

FAIRFIELD, CT — A nonprofit group plans to donate a Holocaust memorial sculpture for permanent installation on the campus of Fairfield University in fall 2026.

Shoah Memorial Fairfield, Connecticut, said it will gift "She Wouldn’t Take Off Her Boots," a bronze monument created by artist Victoria Milstein. The work depicts three Jewish women and two girls who were ordered to undress before being killed. According to the organization, one woman refused to remove her boots — an act it describes as a final expression of resistance and dignity.

Click here to view photos of the monument.

The memorial includes a bronze camera positioned to face the figures, symbolizing the Nazi photographer whose images documented their last moments. Organizers say the element is intended to ensure the story is neither forgotten nor distorted.

The sculpture, first installed in LeBauer Park in Greensboro, North Carolina, in 2023, drew the attention of Fairfield native Paul Burger, who later helped establish Shoah Memorial Fairfield to bring the work to his hometown. The group says the installation aims to highlight the experiences of Jewish women and children during the Holocaust amid concerns about fading historical awareness and rising antisemitism.

The organization is inviting residents, schools, faith groups and local businesses to participate in the project through advocacy, financial support and community programming. Funds will support the installation, an endowment and educational resources tied to the memorial.

Events and outreach efforts will be announced as the project moves forward, the group said.

Upcoming Events
Community members are invited to learn more about the project at these upcoming events:

• December: Documentary Screening at Bellarmine Hall at Fairfield University
• TBD: Appearance on Live with Lisa radio show and podcast
• January 25, 2026: Shoah Memorial Introduction at the Westport Library
• January: Special talk hosted by the Y’s Men of Westport
• Fall 2026: Monument unveiling at Fairfield University

All dates are subject to change. More details will be announced at www.shoahmemorialfairfieldct.com.

Take Action
Stand with our community through participation, advocacy, and contribution. To learn more, get involved, or make a tax-deductible donation, please visit:
https://newhavenjewishfoundation.org/shoah-memorial-fairfield-ct/.