NEW YORK, NY.- Soho Photo Gallery presents a special exhibition by guest photographer Norman H. Gershman entitled Besa: Muslims Who Saved Jews During World War II.

Besa is a code of honor deeply rooted in Albanian culture and incorporated in the faith of Albanian Muslims. It dictates a moral behavior so absolute that non-adherence brings shame and dishonor to oneself and one's family. Besa demands that one take responsibility for the lives of others in their time of need. This Islamic behavior of compassion and mercy celebrates the sanctity of life and a view of the other–the stranger–as one's own close family member.

Photographer Norman H. Gershman traveled to Albania over a seven-year period to speak with the people involved and to record their stories and their children’s stories. He photographed them as they appear today, along with the artifacts he collected, and presents an emotional and unprecedented window into a forgotten aspect of history. Gershman is the founder of The Eye Contact Foundation, which promotes religious, political, cultural and economic understanding and tolerance among people worldwide through the use of portrait photography. Examples of images from the Besa exhibition may be seen there. Norman H. Gershman will be at Soho Photo Gallery on January 21st for a special speaking engagement and book signing from 6:00pm to 9:00pm.

A member’s exhibition by Sandi Daniel is also on view.

Soho Photo Gallery has been showcasing a broad spectrum of imagery by emerging and veteran photographers since 1971. The Gallery is in New York’s historic TriBeCa district, three blocks south of Canal Street between West Broadway and Sixth Avenue. Subways: #1 to Franklin Street or the A, C, E, W, N, R or #6 to Canal Street. Gallery Hours: Wednesdays - Sundays, 1-6 PM, and by appointment. Telephone: 212.662.5532.