Holocaust Survivor Marian Turski Passes Away at 97

PLPoland|

Marian Turski, a renowned Holocaust survivor and journalist, has died at the age of 97. Born in Lithuania in 1926, Turski and his family were imprisoned in the Łódź ghetto before being deported to Auschwitz. He was liberated from Theresienstadt after enduring a grueling death march. Turski was recognized for his impactful speeches at Auschwitz liberation commemorations in 2010, 2020, and 2025. Christoph Heubner, Executive Vice President of the International Auschwitz Committee, expressed deep sorrow over Turski's passing, stating, “Survivors in many countries bid farewell with great sorrow and infinite gratitude to their friend, brother, and companion in suffering.”

Throughout his life, Turski remained vigilant about rising antisemitic and far-right ideologies, sharing concerns about the radicalization of youth. He cites Holocaust survivor Primo Levi's warning that the atrocities of the past could recur. Despite his fears, Turski maintained hope for humanity, believing dialogue could conquer fear and hatred. He urged future generations to carry forward the memories of the past, asserting, “Our days, the days of survivors, are numbered: But we will not be silent if you do not remain silent.”

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