Guest Speaker Janna Blanter Inspires Students with Powerful Story of Freedom and Resilience
Yesterday, our students had the privilege of hearing from Janna Blanter, an extraordinary speaker from The Dissident Project, who shared her powerful life story and insights on the importance of freedom and human rights.
Janna Blanter’s journey began in the Soviet Union, where she lived through some of the most difficult and oppressive times in history. Leaving the USSR in 1976 as a teenager, she still carries the vivid memories of the hardships she faced. She recounted stories of waiting in long bread lines, living under constant fear of authority, and the heartbreak of having family members imprisoned in gulags for simply speaking out against the regime.
Despite the traumas of her past, Janna’s story is one of resilience and hope. She now serves as an adjunct faculty member and a board member for an oil drilling company, using her personal experiences to educate others and inspire conversations about the value of human rights and the freedoms many of us often take for granted.
Throughout her talk, Janna stressed the importance of understanding history and the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom. Her message was clear: the right to speak freely and live without fear of oppression is a gift that should never be taken lightly.
Students were deeply inspired by Janna’s story and had many insightful questions about her experiences and perspectives. Her visit sparked meaningful discussions about the importance of defending freedom, the power of resilience, and the ongoing fight for human rights around the world. It was clear from the enthusiasm and curiosity in the room that her message resonated with our students.
We are incredibly grateful to have had Janna Blanter speak to our students today, and we hope her words will continue to inspire and motivate them long after her visit. Her story serves as an enduring reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of standing up for freedom.
Barnesville School
21830 Peach Tree Road
PO Box 404
Barnesville, MD 20838
p: 301.972.0341
PO Box 404
Barnesville, MD 20838
p: 301.972.0341
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