by guest contributor Tamara Buchwald
Photo credit: Courtesy of the Dutch Embassy
During the annual Dutch Tulip days, a vibrant event that celebrates Dutch culture and heritage, the Anne Frank Awards were presented in a special ceremony at the Residence of the Netherlands in Washington, D.C. Hosted by Ambassador Brigitta Tazelaar, the evening was a remarkable fusion of history, art and culture honoring two women, Dr. Irene Butter and Dr.Kathrin Meyer, whose lifelong dedication to human rights and education has made an enduring impact. As guests arrived at the residence, they were greeted with cocktails and the warm hospitality of the Ambassador, who hosted the evening with grace and poise. Ambassador Talenzaar, a strong supporter of cultural diplomacy, welcomed guests from various backgrounds, including Representative Hillary Scholten, Representative John Molenaar, Dr. Katrina Lantos Swett and other diplomats, educators, and community leaders. The Anne Frank awards serve as a profound reminder of the importance of tolerance, human rights, and the fight against discrimination. This prestigious event honors individuals or organizations whose efforts reflect the values and ideals embodied by Anne Frank. Her diary became a powerful testament to the horrors of the Holocaust and the resilience of the human spirit.
Dr. Irene Butter
Dr. Irene Butter, a Holocaust survivor, has dedicated her life to sharing her experiences and advocating for human rights and tolerance. Born in Berlin, Germany, in 1930, she witnessed firsthand the horrors of the Holocaust. She was moved to Amsterdam in 1937 and then to the Bergen Belsen Camp in 1944 which held Anne Frank. Anne was in a neighboring section of the camp, but she would meet with her at the barbed wire fence. Anne and her sister were very sick so Dr. Butter offered to collect what clothing they could and throw it over to her. She did, but before Anne could get the clothes, another woman stole the package. Because Dr. Butter’s father secured Ecuadorian passports, her family was traded for German prisoners and released. After the war, she moved to the United States, where she became a professor at the University of Michigan. Beyond academia, Dr. Butter co-founded the Raoul Wallenberg Institute, focusing on human rights education. Her memoir, Shores Beyond Shores: From Holocaust to Hope, recounts her harrowing journey and has been translated into multiple languages. In June 2024, Dr. Butter was awarded Germany’s highest civilian honor, the Officers’ Cross of the Order of Merit, recognizing her contributions to Holocaust remembrance and reconciliation.
Dr. Robert Williams, Dr. Katrin Meyer & Ambassador Tazelaar
Dr. Kathrin Meyer, a distinguished scholar and advocate, has dedicated much of her career to ensuring that the lessons of history are not forgotten and that the voices of marginalized communities are heard. As the founder of several initiatives aimed at promoting human rights education, Dr. Meyer has worked with organizations across the globe to combat discrimination, foster inclusivity, and raise awareness about the dangers of prejudice and hatred. Throughout her career, Dr. Meyer has been a passionate advocate for the preservation of historical memory. Her work with Holocaust survivors, museums, and educational institutions has played a crucial role in keeping the lessons of the past alive for future generations. In her acceptance speech, Dr. Meyer expressed deep gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the importance of continuing the fight against all forms of hate.
The Residence of the Netherlands in Washington, D.C. served as the perfect backdrop for the ceremony. Known for its stunning architecture and rich history, the residence provided an elegant setting for the prestigious award presentation. Not only was there a celebration of Dutch Tulip Days, there was also a celebration of the 80 th Anniversary of the end of World War II.
Dr. Jessica McKee
The event featured an unforgettable recital by a talented pianist, Dr. Jessica McKee who brought an emotional depth to the evening’s proceedings. The recital included a selection of classical pieces, with compositions that echoed themes of memory, resilience, and hope. Music, as a universal language, beautifully complemented the spirit of the Anne Frank Award and served as a poignant reminder of the power of art to heal and unite. The pianist’s performance was a perfect interlude, offering guests a moment of reflection while enhancing the significance of the award ceremony. The melodies resonated deeply with the audience, echoing the values of the Anne Frank Award and the profound impact of Dr. Butter’s and Dr. Meyer’s life’s work.
As the evening concluded, guests left with a renewed sense of purpose—reflecting on both the lessons of history and the ongoing need to fight for justice, tolerance, and human rights. The Tulip Days event at the Residence of the Netherlands was a fitting tribute to these two remarkable individuals whose life embodies the spirit of the Anne Frank Award. In a world where the need for empathy and understanding has never been greater, the work of Dr. Butter and Dr. Meyer and the message of the Anne Frank Award resonates deeply. As we continue to face challenges in fostering a more inclusive and compassionate world, it is the legacy of individuals like Dr. Butter and Dr. Meyer that inspire future generations to remember, reflect, and act.
