Gloria Yolanda Fredkove arrived in Oswego, New York in 1943, when she was fifteen months old. Her history is woven from the stories her mother told her as well as her own research and life experiences. Aside from recordings of Gloria’s mother, Eva Bass, the audio in this project was taken almost entirely from real conversations I had with Gloria, discussing her story and the importance of remembrance. I hope hearing her voice allows the viewer to feel close to Gloria and her story, and that they are inspired take the time to remember how closely we are all connected.

Few pictures remain of Gloria’s early life in Italy and the only refugee camp for Jews in America, so this film weaves together what little photographic memories remain with footage of my mother teaching me to braid challah. Like remembrance, braiding challah is an intergenerational tradition we all must actively take part in if we are to pass on our history to the next generation.

From poetry to piano, Gloria’s love of art and bottomless well of creativity is what made this film possible. I feel deeply honored to have had the opportunity meet this incredible woman and to braid her story.