Today, Congressman Andy Levin (MI-09), a former synagogue president and member of the Caucus on Black-Jewish Relations, Latino Jewish Caucus and Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, released the following statement to recognize International Holocaust Remembrance Day:
"Today, as we remember the Holocaust and reflect on its horrors, it is essential to recommit to the memory of those who perished and move forward with a fervent dedication never to allow our neighbors to be obliterated by otherness. On an interpersonal level, we need to work every day to dismantle the dangerous and violent machinery of antisemitism. At a systemic level, uniting against antisemitism and all forms of hate and intolerance requires combatting supremacist, discriminatory and nationalist ideologies while pursuing a broader vision of equality and justice.
"Let us recognize and highlight the alarming rise in antisemitism and antisemitic violence across the United States. According to the American Jewish Committee's "State of Antisemitism in America Report," almost 4 in 10 American Jews changed their behavior in 2021 out of fear of antisemitism. Jews across the country have been feeling the palpable fear and trauma that stems from the Tree of Life and Poway synagogue mass shootings and many smaller incidents. During the January 6 insurrection, a rioter was pictured wearing a "Camp Auschwitz" sweatshirt. A school board in Tennessee voted this month to ban the Holocaust book "MAUS" from their curricula. Less than two weeks ago, Jewish worshippers and a rabbi were held hostage at Congregation Beth Israel in Colleyville, Texas during Shabbat services.
"We must loudly and consistently call out antisemitism in all its forms.
"On this International Holocaust Remembrance Day, let us celebrate the unity and resilience of our communities, as we come together to combat the interwoven forms of hatred that threaten us and build a safer, more compassionate world for all."
Source:https://andylevin.house.gov/media/press-releases/levin-statement-international-holocaust-remembrance-day
