On January 27, 2025, the Saarland Parliament held a solemn memorial event commemorizing the Holocaust, featuring impactful remarks from Jewish publicist Michel Friedman, who passionately called for the defense of democracy against rising antisemitism. This year marked the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz concentration camp, and Friedman used this platform to urgently warn about the precarious state of Jewish life today.
“80 years after Auschwitz, Jewish life is so endangered like it hasn’t been for decades,” Friedman stated, drawing immediate attention to the current climate facing Jews, particularly after the disturbing events following the October 7, 2023, terror attack by Hamas. Friedman said he was advised not to reveal his Jewish identity openly, citing safety concerns: “I insist, not because I am Jewish, but because I am a citizen and human of this country, to live my life as a Jew at any time and place.”
Without mentioning the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party directly, Friedman condemned the growing normalization of antisemitism within German society. “Every fifth German votes for a party which says some people are nobody,” he declared, referring to the AfD's approach to marginalizing certain groups. His rhetoric reflected deep concerns over the increasing hatred being voiced publicly, which he stated had reached alarming levels not seen for decades.
A sudden disruption occurred during his speech as Josef Dörr, chairman of the AfD faction, interjected, insisting Friedman should “stay moderate” before standing up and leaving the auditorium. This interruption highlighted the contentious atmosphere surrounding political discussions about history and memory. Friedman responded to the walkout with a flourish of defiance, remarking, “Maybe it would be nice if you also listened and didn’t leave the room,” prompting loud applause from the audience.
Friedman's address drew applause and visible emotional reactions from attendees, reinforcing the need for societal vigilance against hate, be it antisemitism or any form of discrimination. He acknowledged the painful legacy of the Holocaust, mentioning the loss of 50 family members to German atrocities during World War II. “We are witnessing the normalization of Jew-hatred, and hatred of people has become more socially acceptable,” he lamented.
Despite the challenges outlined, he described himself as “a desperate optimist,” hoping for resolute efforts from every citizen to combat hate and intolerance—calling it not merely the work of politicians but the duty of every individual. His remarks highlighted the necessity for active engagement against fascistic tendencies within modern democratic structures.
Landtag President Heike Winzent also addressed the assembly, urging citizens to confront and combat discrimination and antisemitism, emphasizing the persistent threats against Jewish communities within Germany as not mere historical reflections but immediate challenges. She affirmed, “The responsibility does not lessen with the passage of time.”
The event served not only to honor those lost during the Holocaust but also to ignite discussions about the current socio-political climate. Many in the audience echoed Friedman’s concerns over increased antisemitism and called for fostering attitudes of respect and dignity toward all people. “Never again should people rise above others,” Friedman stated, underscoring the fight for universal human rights.
Looking forward, Mother Rehlinger, who was unable to attend the Saarland event due to her presence at the commemoration at Auschwitz, voiced through her office the pressing need for education about the Holocaust and the establishment of laws to prevent the spread of hate. She explained, “Education is key to preventing antisemitism and racism.”
The day underscored not only the horrors of the past but also the pressing need for vigilance against any resurgence of hatred or intolerance, ensuring history does not repeat itself.