Marian Turski, Auschwitz Survivor and President of the Auschwitz Committee, Passes Away at 98
Marian Turski, a renowned Auschwitz survivor and President of the Auschwitz Committee, passed away at the age of 98. The news was reported by the Polish magazine Polityka, where Turski served as a staff writer.
Polityka described Turski as an "extraordinary man, witness to history, and friend" in a statement mourning his loss.
Christoph Heubner, Executive Vice President of the Auschwitz Committee, expressed the deep sorrow and immense gratitude of Auschwitz survivors worldwide. "Our friend, brother, and fellow sufferer, Marian Turski, will be remembered as a powerful advocate for our memories and a voice for our murdered loved ones," he said.
Turski was elected President of the organization in 2021.
During the Nazi occupation of Poland, Turski and his family were imprisoned in the Lodz Ghetto in 1942. Two years later, he was deported to the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration and extermination camp.
After his liberation, Turski worked as a journalist in Warsaw. He co-founded the Museum of the History of Polish Jews in Warsaw and served as Chairman of the Jewish Historical Institute.
On January 27th, just weeks before his passing, Turski delivered a speech at the commemorative event for the 79th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz. In his address, he warned of the "alarming rise of antisemitism."
"This is the same antisemitism that led to the Holocaust," he said.
Marian Turski’s Legacy
Turski’s relentless pursuit of historical accuracy and unwavering commitment to preserving the memory of the Holocaust earned him global recognition and respect.
As President of the Auschwitz Committee, he played a pivotal role in the organization’s efforts to combat Holocaust denial and promote education about the horrors of the Nazi regime.
Turski was a tireless advocate for the rights of Holocaust survivors and their families. He often spoke out against the trivialization and distortion of Holocaust history and the resurgence of extremist ideologies.
His writings, speeches, and interviews have inspired countless people worldwide to confront the darkest chapter in human history and to work towards a future free from hate and intolerance.
A Personal Tribute
Those who knew Turski personally describe him as a man of extraordinary courage, wisdom, and compassion. His ability to reconcile the horrors he experienced with an unwavering belief in humanity was a testament to his indomitable spirit.
Turski’s loss is a profound one for the Holocaust survivor community, the Jewish people, and all who cherish the values of truth, memory, and reconciliation.
Kondolenzbuch (Condolence Book)
In the spirit of honoring Marian Turski’s legacy, we invite you to share your memories, thoughts, and condolences in the comment section below. We kindly ask that you maintain a respectful and compassionate tone in your messages.
