The Auschwitz survivor Marian Turski called for "fearlessness" in the face of antisemitism that led to the Holocaust during the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Nazi extermination camp by the Soviet Army.
In an emotional speech delivered to an audience of 2,500 people, including about fifty heads of state and government, diplomats, and representatives of countries and international organizations, Turski emphasized the importance of resolving problems among neighbors and ethnic groups. He cited historical reconciliations between nations that clashed in the past, such as France and Germany.
At an event attended by the King and Queen of Spain, Felipe VI and Letizia, Turski also warned about how "hatred and incitement to hate" can lead to "armed conflict" and "bloodshed." He recalled his experience in Auschwitz and the importance of learning from history for a safer future.
Another survivor, Janina Iwańska, born in 1930, urged Europe not to repeat the mistakes of the past and not to be swayed by situations similar to those that occurred during World War II. She warned about the possibility of a similar chaos happening anywhere and at any time if one is not vigilant.
For her part, Tova Friedman, 86 years old and one of the youngest people to escape Auschwitz alive, emphasized the awakening of collective consciousness to transform the violence and hatred that still persist in today's society. She warned about the increasing antisemitism today and the need to act before these negative forces destroy humanity.
Finally, Leon Weintraub, who turned 99 this month, recalled the importance of being sensitive to expressions of intolerance and resentment towards those considered different. He urged taking warnings against democracy seriously and learning from past mistakes to avoid situations similar to those experienced in the 1930s.