Since launching in June, @annefranklifestory has attracted millions of views on Instagram, introducing a new generation to Anne Frank’s life, writing, and experiences. The series is also reaching audiences on TikTok, where one video attracted nearly 500,000 views in its first weeks.
But our growing audience has brought an unexpected responsibility. We discovered Holocaust denial and neo-Nazi propaganda circulating on Instagram alongside our educational content.
We challenged Meta to act, and Meta removed the reels and accounts we reported.
This early success demonstrates that we can do more than share history on social media. We can challenge the platforms themselves to confront antisemitism. Our next task is to pressure Meta to recognize and remove less explicit forms of Holocaust denial.
Beyond the Views: Bringing Anne Frank’s Story to a New Generation
At the Eradicate Hate Global Summit in Pittsburgh this September, AFC USA CEO Dr. Lauren Bairnsfather addressed both the opportunities and responsibilities of teaching Holocaust history on social media.
Millions of views demonstrate reach, but they do not necessarily indicate understanding. Through @annefranklifestory, we are learning how audiences engage with Anne Frank’s story and how misinformation threatens to undermine the work of Holocaust education in schools.
Watch Lauren’s presentation at the 2026 Eradicate Hate Global Summit.
