Dear Friends,
Today is International Holocaust Remembrance Day (IHRD) and this year marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau.
The IHRD is a UN designated moment in time to remember the six million Jews, mercilessly and systematically murdered by the Nazis and all other victims of Nazi atrocities. It is a designated moment in time to honour the survivors and their unbelievable courage and resilience.
Last year, Ben-Gurion University Canada (BGU Canada) premiered the movie Irena’s Vow, telling the story of Irena Gut Opdyke, a young woman working as a housekeeper for a Nazi officer in occupied Poland, who selflessly sheltered a group of Jews in the basement, taking immense personal risks as she tried to outwit the Nazis and protect “her Jews” from discovery. Irena heroically saved many lives, at grave personal risk.
The resurgence of Jew hatred that we have all experienced in our cities since October 7th means that too often these days, Never Again, feels like a real and present danger. While we celebrate the release of Emily Damari, Romi Gonen, Doron Steinbrecher, Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag, Israeli hostages continue to suffer in Hamas dungeons which is why Irena's story is so important. It is a reminder that even at the darkest moments, good people can and do make a difference.
It is fitting that the Canadian National Holocaust Monument was built directly adjacent to the Canadian War Museum (and within walking distance of the Parliament buildings). There are many reasons for this, including ensuring that Holocaust remembrance has a prominent place in our country and that we all understand the intrinsic connection that sometimes fighting pure evil is the only option.
Honour. Remember. Act.
All three are necessary so that Never Again does not become Again and Again.
Andrea
