LIVE NOW: Poilievre speaks on International Holocaust Remembrance Day

Summary of Remarks from the Holocaust Remembrance Day Ceremony

Key Concepts: Holocaust Remembrance, Anti-Semitism, Power of One, Historical Responsibility, Remembrance as Vigilance, Holocaust Distortion, Individual Action, Canadian History & Complicity, Importance of Survivor Testimony.

I. Opening Remarks & Context

The ceremony commenced with acknowledgement of the profound personal losses experienced by many attendees, with several speakers noting family members who perished in concentration camps like Auschwitz, Birkenau, and Majdanek. The theme of “The Power of One” was highlighted, emphasizing the impact of individual actions – both positive and negative – in the context of the Holocaust and contemporary anti-Semitism. Partnerships with the Embassy of Sweden and Mercial Ambassador Btala were acknowledged, alongside the provision of support services like St. John’s Ambulance and a therapy dog. The importance of actively listening to survivor testimonies was stressed as a crucial step in preventing future atrocities.

II. Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Address

Prime Minister Carney framed the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau as a pivotal moment exposing the horrors of the Holocaust, the culpability of those who enabled it, and the resilience of survivors. He emphasized that “looking away is not a passive act but an act of betrayal.” He acknowledged Canada’s own history of turning away from those in need, citing examples like the MS St. Louis incident and the “Nunavut era.” Carney announced collaborative parliamentary efforts to criminalize obstruction of access to places of worship and community centers, recognizing that legislation alone is insufficient to combat hate. He advocated for a society where Jewish people are not merely protected but fully participate in all aspects of Canadian life, stating that Canada thrives when all communities flourish. He quoted Eli Wiesel: “To forget the dead would be akin to killing them a second time,” underscoring the necessity of remembrance as vigilance. His central message was a call for deliverance from intimidation and a pursuit of transcendence towards an open and inclusive society.

III. Leader of the Opposition Pierre Poilievre’s Remarks

Poilievre detailed the systematic escalation of Nazi persecution, from initial repression and attacks on Jewish businesses (like Kristallnacht) to the ultimate horror of the Holocaust, resulting in the deaths of approximately 6 million Jews – two-thirds of Europe’s Jewish population. He stressed the importance of preserving survivor stories as their numbers dwindle. He highlighted the resurgence of anti-Semitism, citing recent attacks on synagogues in Halifax, Montreal, and Vancouver, including a firebombing and an attempted arson. He specifically mentioned a stabbing incident in Ottawa involving a Jewish woman wearing a Star of David necklace. Poilievre connected contemporary anti-Semitism to the attacks of October 7th and the subsequent protests, warning that anti-Israel sentiment can easily morph into outright anti-Semitism. He emphasized the need for Jews to live safely and openly in Canada, proudly proclaiming their identity. He referenced the act of placing stones on graves as a Jewish tradition symbolizing remembrance and resilience, noting that the Nazis ultimately failed in their attempt to erase the Jewish people.

IV. Israeli Ambassador Ydidom Moed’s Address

Ambassador Moed drew a parallel between the historical horrors of the Holocaust and the recent attacks in Israel on October 7th, emphasizing the resurgence of anti-Semitism globally. He criticized the appeasement of perpetrators and the targeting of Jews in the wake of the attacks. He detailed specific incidents of anti-Semitic violence and vandalism in Canada, including defacement of monuments, synagogue attacks, and physical assaults. He highlighted the concerning trend of “top-down” anti-Semitism spreading through universities and government-funded organizations. He referenced the poem “Eli, Eli” by Hannah Senesh, transforming despair into a call for faith in humanity. He underscored the importance of international cooperation in combating intolerance and defending freedom.

V. Swedish Ambassador Sier Bergstallor’s Remarks

Ambassador Bergstallor emphasized Sweden’s commitment to Holocaust remembrance and education, stemming from a 2000 initiative led by then-Prime Minister Jöran Persson. This initiative led to the formation of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA). She stressed that remembrance must be coupled with action, particularly in the face of rising anti-Semitism and historical distortion. She highlighted the legacy of Raoul Wallenberg, a Swedish diplomat who saved thousands of Hungarian Jews, and the connection between his heroism and Canada’s recognition of him as an honorary citizen. She also mentioned the Young Courage Award, recognizing young people who demonstrate moral courage against hate.

VI. Mina Cohen & the iWalk Digital Program

Mina Cohen, Chair of the Center for Holocaust Education and Scholarship (CHESS), introduced the National Holocaust Monument iWalk app, a digital tool designed to enhance the visitor experience and deepen understanding of the Holocaust. The app provides interactive guided tours, focusing on the monument’s symbolism and incorporating testimonies from 17 Holocaust survivors who made Canada their home. She noted the recent defacement of the monument as a reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and education.

VII. Noah Shak & the Call to Action

Noah Shak, CEO of the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), posed the question: “What will you do now?” He recounted the story of Joe Goddenker, whose life was saved by the courage of a Polish Catholic family. He highlighted the increasing threats faced by Jewish Canadians, including harassment, intimidation, and violence. He called for leaders to confront anti-Semitism and for individuals to take decisive action against hate.

VIII. Adam Silver & the Power of Individual Action (Bert Shinwell’s Story)

Adam Silver, President of the Jewish Federation of Ottawa, shared the story of Bert Shinwell, a 100-year-old Holocaust survivor and Canadian veteran who participated in the liberation of Bergen-Belsen. Shinwell’s story exemplified the theme of “The Power of One,” demonstrating how individual actions – enlisting, encouraging escape, volunteering – can make a significant difference.

IX. Simon Wool & Nathan Diner’s Story

Simon Wool, CEO of Benab Canada, recounted the harrowing experiences of Nathan Diner, a Holocaust survivor who rebuilt his life in Canada. Diner’s story highlighted the importance of individual courage, resilience, and the need to confront the resurgence of hatred.

X. Concluding Remarks & Prayers

The ceremony concluded with a call to action, urging attendees to continue the struggle against anti-Semitism and to embody the “Power of One.” Traditional Jewish memorial prayers were recited, emphasizing remembrance and a commitment to preventing future atrocities. The Canadian national anthem, “O Canada,” was sung.

Data & Statistics Mentioned:

• 1.3 million: People forced into Auschwitz-Birkenau.
• 10,000: Daily deaths at Auschwitz-Birkenau during peak killing periods.
• 1.1 million: Jewish people killed at Auschwitz-Birkenau.
• 6 million: Total Jewish deaths during the Holocaust.
• 2/3: Proportion of Europe’s Jewish population killed during the Holocaust.
• 40%: Percentage of Canadian university students who believe it is not anti-Semitic to say the Holocaust is a myth or exaggerated (from a soon-to-be-released national survey).
• 60%: Percentage of anti-Semitic incidents in Ontario schools linked to the Jewish homeland.
• 1 in 6: Proportion of anti-Semitic incidents in Ontario schools initiated or approved by a teacher.

Notable Quotes:

• “Looking away is not a passive act but an act of betrayal.” – Mark Carney
• “To forget the dead would be akin to killing them a second time.” – Eli Wiesel (quoted by Mark Carney)
• “The liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau exposed the scale of Nazi crimes to the world and became symbols of the horrors of the Holocaust, the guilt of the enablers, and the resilience of the survivors.” – Mark Carney
• “What will you do now?” – Noah Shak
• “Their principled heroism forces an uncomfortable but necessary question. What would any of us gathered here today have done?” – Noah Shak

This summary aims to provide a detailed and specific account of the remarks delivered at the Holocaust Remembrance Day ceremony, preserving the original language and technical precision of the transcript.