[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 57 (Wednesday, May 4, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E868]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SHERROD BROWN

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Wednesday, May 4, 2005

  Mr. BROWN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, today marks the national 
commemoration of Holocaust Remembrance Day. Six million Jews were 
murdered as a result of state-sponsored, systematic persecution.
  The Holocaust is not just a story of destruction and loss; it is a 
story of an apathetic world and a few individuals of extraordinary 
courage. It is a remarkable story of the human spirit that thrived 
before the Holocaust, struggled during its darkest hours, and 
ultimately prevailed as survivors rebuilt their lives.
  Holocaust Remembrance Day is a vehicle for honoring the victims of 
the Holocaust and reminding us all of what can happen to civilized 
people when bigotry, hatred and indifference reign.
  This year's observance marks the 60th Anniversary of the end of World 
War II in Europe. On VE Day, those living in Allied Countries 
celebrated the end of the war. Those imprisoned in concentration camps 
had lost too much and seen too much evil to celebrate.
  The history of the Holocaust offers an opportunity to reflect on the 
moral responsibilities of individuals, societies, and governments. We 
should always remember the terrible events of the Holocaust and remain 
vigilant against hatred, persecution, and tyranny.
  We must actively rededicate ourselves to the principles of individual 
freedom in a just society.
  The Jewish Holocaust revealed to the world the horrors man can 
perpetrate if racial and religious hatred are allowed to fester in the 
heart of society.
  As we remember those who were killed because of racial and religious 
hatred, we must act to stop these crimes against humanity today.
  Civilians in Sudan are being systematically murdered, raped and 
brutalized by the government and other forces. And yet, the world has 
not acted. Last July, the House recognized these atrocities but has 
done little to intervene. The United States and the international 
community have an obligation to end this humanitarian crisis.
  While we reflect on the Holocaust and its victims, and honor the 
survivors, rescuers and liberators, we should strive to overcome 
intolerance and indifference through learning, understanding, and 
remembrance.

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