Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the Liberation of Auschwitz
On January 27, 2025, we mark the solemn occasion of the 80th anniversary of the Liberation of Auschwitz, the haunting German Nazi concentration and extermination camp situated in German-occupied Poland. Piotr Cywiński, the Director of the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum, shares insights with Vatican Media on the significance of preserving memory and acknowledging our shared responsibilities.
By S. Kidane
During World War II, over 1.1 million innocent individuals, including men, women, and children, perished at the Auschwitz-Birkenau camp, a stark reminder of the atrocities committed by the Nazis. Established in 1940 after the annexation of Oswiecem, a Polish city, by the Third Reich, Auschwitz stands as a symbol of terror, genocide, and the Holocaust.
The Memorial has been visited by esteemed figures like Pope St. John Paul II in 1979, Pope Benedict XVI in 2006, and Pope Francis in 2016, underscoring its global significance.
Reflecting on the importance of remembrance, the Auschwitz Memorial and Museum highlights that memory is a continuous process, especially as the last survivors and eyewitnesses pass away. Director Piotr Cywiński emphasizes the critical role survivors play in shaping the narrative and advocating for remembrance and accountability.
Listen to the interview with Piotr Cywiński:
Q: How will you commemorate the event this year and how will it be different from other years?
For this year’s commemoration, the focus will be on the survivors, with around 50 to 60 individuals expected to attend. They will be central to the event, delivering speeches and honoring the victims with candlelight tributes. The day will be devoid of political speeches, emphasizing the importance of personal testimonies.
What is the significance of remembering, in light of the current situation in the world?
Remembrance serves as a compass in understanding our present circumstances, responsibilities, and collective obligations. It acts as a guide towards maturity and enlightenment.
Survivors are ageing and will eventually no longer be with us. How can we ensure that what happened here does not become just another terrible story in history for future generations?
To prevent the horrors of Auschwitz from fading into history, we must nurture a spirit of community and cooperation, exemplified by initiatives like the European Union. By fostering unity and dialogue among diverse groups, we can build a more ethical and inclusive society.
The travelling exhibition “Auschwitz: not long ago, not far away” is currently in Toronto. Is this aimed at reaching those unable to visit Auschwitz?
While nothing can replace the experience of visiting Auschwitz in person, the exhibition aims to make this history accessible to a wider audience, including those facing barriers like financial constraints or travel limitations. Through online resources and guided tours, the message of remembrance can reach individuals worldwide.
The Netherlands recently decided to release the names of suspected Nazi collaborators. Do you think this aids in remembrance?
Understanding the actions of perpetrators is crucial in comprehending historical atrocities. Initiatives like disclosing names of collaborators shed light on the complexities of complicity and accountability, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of the past.
(The interview has been slightly edited for length and clarity)
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