Recognizing Holocaust Remembrance Day

WASHINGTON – Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) made the following statement today recognizing Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, in honor of Holocaust survivors:

“Today we stand with communities around the world in honor of the six million Jews and countless other victims who perished during the Holocaust. Yom HaShoah reminds us not only of the millions we lost, but the bravery and strength of those who survived such senseless acts of brutality.

“Last month in Yad Vashem, Israel’s Holocaust Memorial, President Obama paid tribute to the memory of the Six Million who perished in the Holocaust, as he said: ‘Here, on your ancient land, let it be said for all the world to hear: The State of Israel does not exist because of the Holocaust. But with the survival of a strong Jewish State of Israel, such a Holocaust will never happen again.’

“My children’s generation will be the last to personally know the brave men and women who escaped from some of the worst horrors our world has ever known, and have shared their legacy by reminding us of their personal stories and struggles. Today, many of the survivors of the Holocaust living in America lack adequate financial resources for their housing and health care needs. That is why I have introduced legislation to help survivors access the services they need to age in place in dignity and peace. This legislation will help Holocaust survivors receive preference for social services given through the Older Americans Act, such as transportation, nutrition, and home modifications, so that Holocaust survivors can remain in their homes.

“This year’s theme for the Days of Remembrance is ‘Never Again: Heeding the Warning Signs. It is vital that we learn and remember the lessons of the Holocaust so that we can prevent such atrocities from ever happening again. This Yom HaShoah, we pause to reflect on the horrific past, and we recommit ourselves to honoring the memories of the victims and celebrating the lives of the survivors. It is through this reflection that we can ensure the world never forgets.”