Marian Turski: A Voice Against Antisemitism Passes Away at 98

Marian Turski, the Auschwitz survivor and advocate for remembrance and justice, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of activism against antisemitism and oppression.

Marian Turski, a prominent Polish Holocaust survivor known for his unwavering commitment to remembering the horrors of the Holocaust and advocating against antisemitism, passed away on February 18 at the age of 98 in his home in Warsaw. His death was confirmed by the Polin Museum of the History of Polish Jews, an institution he played a significant role in establishing.

Turski, who was deported from the Łódź ghetto to Auschwitz as a teenager, dedicated decades to speaking out against hatred and injustice. In a powerful address during the 75th anniversary of Auschwitz's liberation in 2020, he expressed deep concerns about the alarming resurgence of antisemitism worldwide. He emphasized that the roots of such atrocities begin with seemingly minor acts of discrimination. “Auschwitz did not fall from the sky,” he remarked, underscoring the need for collective vigilance against rising hate.

He championed the “11th Commandment": “Don’t be indifferent,” a clarion call urging individuals to stand against historical inaccuracies and discrimination faced by minorities. Turski warned that indifference to social injustices could lead to another tragedy akin to the Holocaust, urging humanity to learn from the past to prevent future atrocities. His profound insights and dedication to justice will continue to resonate, reminding future generations of the importance of empathy and action in the face of injustice.