Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial

Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial

Journal Entry

The memorial is situated across the street from BSU in a small corner right off the greenbelt. The memorial contains several different areas that can be explored, each with its own purpose. There are two separate circular reading areas that are surrounded by water. There's also the amphitheater, which is surrounded by semi circle stone benches. In the center, is a window cut into stones where the statue of Anne Frank herself stands. There is also the Universal Declaration of Human Right's walls out in front.


Lots of light colored stones, and rocks fill in around the area, and even a small water way that runs past the reading areas. There is plenty of greenery, including trees, and grass. It's a very picturesque space, with a lot of circular motion, everything seems to follow a circle pattern in the design.


The large stone benches were one of the first things I noticed. Also, the large Declaration of Human Right's walls at the front, which are large raised plaques. I also liked the water, and and the little isolated areas for reading off to the sides.


Awhile back, in 1994, a traveling exhibition of Anne Frank came to Boise. The event attracted thousands of people, which sparked the idea for a permanent memorial to be built in Boise. The memorial itself was designed by Kurt Karst, who used natural elements as stone, water and plants to incorporate the feeling of hope in humanity. Greg Stone created the bronze sculpture of Anne Frank herself, and the funds to pay for it came from Idaho school kids. The idea for the park itself came from several community leaders, human rights stalwarts and people from across the state and country.


The written Declaration of Human Rights is the main attraction of the site. I think it's great that this memorial provides access to anyone who wants to learn more about their rights. There is also a wall of quotes from world humanitarian leaders, which I thought were very inspirational.


The intended function for this site is to allow for people to know what their rights are in this world. We all are the same, blood pumping, air breathing people, and we all deserve our humanity. Our history, and even in current events show the mistakes we've made and continue to make. I think this is a great memorial because we're teaching the next generation to embrace a new humanity, where everyone is allowed the same privileges. The memorial I think is a huge success. It's public access is non restricted, people can go, learn, and ask questions. It allows everyone the opportunity to think about whats going on not only in our community, but also the world.