Global Leaders Commemorate Holocaust Amid Rising Antisemitism

On January 27, 2025, world leaders and Holocaust survivors commemorated the 80th anniversary of Auschwitz-Birkenau's liberation, amidst rising antisemitism globally. Survivors like Eva Szepesi emphasized the lasting impact of their experiences, while Ronald S. Lauder of the World Jewish Congress warned that contemporary antisemitic acts threaten civil society. Ceremonies were held worldwide, including in Massachusetts, where survivors shared their urgent need to tell their stories. Events across the UK also marked the anniversary, with communities lighting candles and reflecting on the importance of collective memory. The commemorations highlighted the connection between past atrocities and current issues of prejudice, calling for unity and action against hatred. As many survivors age, these remembrances serve as vital reminders of the Holocaust's horrors and the ongoing fight against antisemitism.