Charlotte Fay: When you arrived at Auschwitz at age 16, you learned that many people considered too weak or too young to work were immediately killed. What did you do?
David Wisnia: I realized I better be among those who can work! I decided that I should be born in 1924, not 1926. The guy asked me, “When were you born?” I said, “1924.” It was a lie.
CF: After Nazi officers discovered you could sing, you became known as a “privileged prisoner.” What was that like?
DW: First of all, roll call could kill you. We didn’t have enough to eat, but we would stand for hours in the mud. But I received more food . . . than average prisoners. There was one officer, in particular, who used to bring me all kinds of goodies. [And while many prisoners] had to work outside in the cold, I got a job in the sauna [washing clothes]. It was warm there.
CF: How did you feel performing for the Nazis?
DW: I was singing for my life. That’s what it was.
CF: What surprised you most about America when you moved here after the war?
DW: I never believed there existed such a place where people had the freedom to do what they wanted. That was not Europe! I kissed the ground.
CF: What advice would you give kids who want to help change the world for the better?
DW: Have a little respect for the next person. When you see prejudice—I mean, I’ve seen the worst—try to help. That’s why we’re here.