[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 65 (Friday, May 2, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E668]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ADAM B. SCHIFF

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 2, 2014

  Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, this week, we observe Holocaust Remembrance 
Day--Yom HaShoah or the Day of Destruction--to remember those lost in 
the tragic genocide during World War II. I join with all Americans, as 
well as people around the world, to honor the tens of millions of lives 
that were lost. While this day is primarily an occasion to remember 
those who were lost, it also serves as a warning that we cannot let 
these atrocious acts of violence happen again.
   On Yom HaShoah in Israel sirens ring out, and no matter what they 
are doing, people stop and reflect for two minutes. We too pause and 
remember those who perished as well as recommit ourselves to never 
again turn a blind eye to the precursors that led to this mass 
genocide. The Nuremberg Laws passed in 1935 capitalized on anti-
Semitism's already widespread growth. These restrictions were followed 
by the destruction of Jewish communities, the construction of death 
camps, families torn apart, and lives lost.
   As we reflect on the 6 million Jews lost 70 years ago, we must also 
remember the victims from other senseless genocides throughout history. 
From working towards the recognition of the Armenian genocide to 
today's atrocities in Sudan and the Central African Republic, we must 
be committed to saying ``never again.'' The violation of basic human 
rights cannot be ignored and we must come together to stand up for 
those who do not have the voice to stand up for themselves.
   I ask all Members to join me in remembering those lost in the 
genocide and pledge that this senseless violence will never be 
forgotten or repeated.

                          ____________________