During the Second World War, the Hornemann family from Eindhoven was gradually excluded, isolated, and ultimately destroyed—simply because they were Jewish. Particularly striking is the story of the young brothers Edo and Lex, who were subjected to horrific medical experiments by the Nazis. Through this deeply personal yet profoundly universal story, Alexander Docters invites you to rethink freedom, responsibility, and your role in today’s world.
In this interactive talk, Alexander (Lex) Docters, a relative of the Hornemann family, brings their story to life. From their carefree life to the oppression that followed the Nazi occupation, the deportations to the concentration camps, and eventually, everyone’s gruesome death. However, this is not merely a historical account. Through this intimate narrative, Lex explores a broader, urgent question: How does exclusion begin, and how far can it go?
Lex connects the past and the present, showing that the mechanisms of exclusion and discrimination are not confined to history. He challenges you to recognize and question these mechanisms, as well as consider your own role within them.
By raising confronting questions such as What is freedom and what does it mean for you? What would you do if someone from a malicious regime knocked on your door?, he invites you to reflect on your own assumptions, choices, and moral compass. Rather than offering easy answers, he creates space for dialogue and critical thinking.
About Alexander Docters
“My Jewish grandfather, Joseph, mentioned the pain and agony he felt when his sister Bets and her two little boys left their hideout for Kamp Vught, only to end up as guinea pigs for the Nazi regime. This family drama led to the remembrance monument for Edo and Lex in Eindhoven. That is why I tell this story; I feel compelled to share this and connect to do my bit for tolerance and inclusion. Because: IT SHOULD NOT MATTER WHO YOU ARE.”
Check out this link for more: The Hornemann Family - The Story
The Hornemann Memorial Center
All information about the memorial center in the Eindhoven city center can be found here: The Hornemann Memorial Center
Ticket reservation recommended
To be assured of a seat, we recommend reserving a ticket (black "order" button).
SG & ITEC for bachelor’s students
Please register for SG & ITEC by scanning your student ID at the venue prior to the start of the program.
More information about SG & ITEC can be found here.