The Holocaust

Floor Speech

Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Yom Hashoah, or Holocaust Remembrance Day, which is the official Israeli Day of Remembrance for victims of the Holocaust. During the Holocaust, six million European Jews were systematically annihilated by the Nazi Regime. Today, I rise to pay tribute to those whose lives were irreparably affected by the Holocaust and to reaffirm my commitment to human rights.

The extermination of the Jewish people during World War II is greatest crime against humanity committed by a nation state in the history of the world. The Holocaust was initiated by members of the National Socialist (Nazi) Party, led by Adolf Hitler, who took control of Germany in 1933 and began increasing assaults on the rights and properties of German Jewish citizens.

During World War II, the Nazi party went even further and implemented their ``Final Solution'' which sought to eliminate the entire Jewish people. Of the nine million Jews who had resided in Europe before the Holocaust, approximately two-thirds perished. In particular, over one million Jewish children were killed in the Holocaust.

Holocaust Remembrance Day, observed on the 27th day of Nisan on the Hebrew Calendar is observed internationally by the Jewish community. This day of remembrance was established in 1953, by a law signed by the Prime Minister of Israel, David Ben-Gurion, and the President of Israel, Yitzhak Ben-Zvi. Although the date was established by the Israeli government, it has become a day observed by Jewish communities and individuals worldwide. Today, many commemorate Yom Hoshoah with candle lighting, speakers, poems, prayers, and singing. Often, six candles are lighted to represent the six million lives lost.

Holocaust Remembrance Day is a day of public observance and education. Public observation is important because it serves as tribute to those who perished. It is up to us to learn and share their stories on their behalf.

Further, the Holocaust was the ultimate disregard for human rights. Education is the best way to prevent these human rights abuses in the future. By encouraging educational programs about the Holocaust, we can help prevent future acts of genocide.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join with me in observing Yom Hashoah and in doing all we can to teach our children and future generations to work together to prevent bigotry, hatred, and prejudice. Let us commit ourselves to combating intolerance wherever it might exist.

Source