Passage to Sweden Being Shown in Solvang

A free screening of the documentary film “Passage to Sweden” will take place on Sunday, April 30 at 4 pm at Bethania Parish Hall, 603 Atterdag Road in Solvang. Doors open at 3:30 pm with a book sale and exhibit about the Danish WWII boat rescue. A discussion with Producer/Director Suzannah Warlick will follow the screening.

The 60-minute film skillfully weaves a treasure trove of historic film footage, photographs, and interviews with people who lived in Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Hungary through the war years into a moving tribute to how Jews and other citizens were spared from the Holocaust by being smuggled into Sweden. Focusing on World War II in the Scandinavian countries,  “Passage to Sweden” illustrates how ordinary citizens worked to save the lives of their Jewish countrymen when the Nazis closed in. This inspiring film shows that even in the most extreme circumstances a single person can make a difference.

“Passage to Sweden is my way of honoring those who acted as ‘up standers’ instead of ‘bystanders’ during one of the most horrific times in history,” Warlick said. “People who risked their lives, and showed courage and compassion to save their neighbors during the holocaust need to be remembered and have their legacy kept alive. The film is a powerful example of how anyone can make a difference, how leadership matters, and how solidarity with our fellow citizens is vital to ensuring fundamental human rights for all of us.”

The film showing is sponsored by the Elverhoj Museum of History & Art, Bethanica Lutheran Church, and the Santa Ynez Valley Jewish Community.