by Tricia White | Managing Editor
At 92, Holocaust survivor Marie “Rie” Spronk-Hughes might take her time reaching the podium, and her voice, which complements her graceful presence, may require you to lean in to catch her words. However, when the topic of any form of bullying arises, this gentle soul transforms into a fierce advocate.
Rie, alongside her sister Katy, is at the heart of The Red Handkerchief: A Holocaust Memoir, penned by Y.M. (Yvonne) Ward-Hughes, who is Rie’s daughter. This poignant narrative recounts the true ordeal that Rie and Katy faced when they were captured and imprisoned by the Nazis. In 1941, while working at a raincoat factory in Amsterdam that was overtaken by the Nazis, the two Roman-Catholic sisters, aged 19 and 20, were forced to produce Nazi uniforms. In a display of bravery, they joined a nationwide strike and took action by sabotaging the uniforms. By 1944, their defiance led to their arrest and subsequent placement in Vught Concentration Camp for resisting the injustices around them, including the deportation of their Jewish coworkers.
Within the camp, the sisters were required to wear uniforms adorned with a red handkerchief. Rie took the initiative to have her fellow inmates sign this handkerchief, hoping to commemorate the courageous women surrounding her.
For 57 years, Rie refrained from sharing her traumatic experiences until compellingly encouraged by her daughter to speak with Dr. Ariel Levy, a historian at the Houston Holocaust Museum. Today, that significant red handkerchief is displayed as part of a permanent exhibit at the museum.
Yvonne and Rie visit schools to impart their anti-bullying message. Below are selections from a recent presentation to eighth graders in Plano:
“I appreciate you sharing your story. I can’t fathom what you endured when taken from your home. You exemplified courage and resilience; you are a truly strong woman for your unwavering hope and determination.”– Itzel R.
“Listening to your experiences inspired me to advocate for my beliefs, regardless of the potential risks. Even the tiniest effort can lead to significant change.”– Iris L.
“Hearing your story has motivated me to take a stand against injustice. I want to join you in the fight to end it.”– Avery K.
