On May 9, 2025, the German Film Awards became a poignant occasion as star pianist Igor Levit delivered a heartfelt tribute to Holocaust survivor Margot Friedländer, who passed away earlier that day at the age of 103. Levit, who had learned of her death shortly before taking the stage, described Friedländer as "a miracle of a human being" and called for a moment of silence, urging the audience to reflect on her life and legacy.
During his emotional address, Levit shared his personal experiences with Friedländer, noting that he had encountered her before, on, and behind the stage. He emphasized her many appeals for humanity, stating, "She carried with her the appeal to be human." The audience, consisting of prominent figures from the film industry and political leaders, stood in solidarity, some visibly moved to tears.
Friedländer was not just a survivor of the Holocaust; she was a beacon of hope and reconciliation. German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier expressed deep sorrow over her passing, acknowledging her gift of reconciliation to the country despite the suffering she endured. "She has given our country reconciliation—despite everything that the Germans did to her as a young person. For this gift, we can never be grateful enough," Steinmeier remarked.
Friedländer's warmth and strength left a lasting impression on everyone she met, as Steinmeier highlighted her deep humanity. He further noted that her legacy serves as a reminder of the responsibility to protect the Jewish community, especially in a time when democracy is challenged and antisemitism resurfaces.
Friedrich Merz, the Chancellor of Germany, referred to Friedländer as one of the strongest voices of our time. He praised her commitment to peaceful coexistence and her fight against antisemitism and forgetfulness. "She entrusted us with her story, and it is our duty to carry it forward," Merz said in a post on social media, expressing condolences to her family and friends.
Lars Klingbeil, the leader of the Social Democratic Party (SPD), also honored Friedländer, stating, "Her death makes me very sad. She was a voice that constantly reminded us of what truly matters: humanity." He noted that despite the atrocities she faced, she offered hope to many.
Julia Klöckner, the President of the Bundestag, emphasized that Friedländer understood her memories as a mission for the future, encapsulating her life wisdom with the message, "Be human!" This simple yet powerful directive resonated deeply, reflecting the essence of her experiences and teachings.
Josef Schuster, president of the Central Council of Jews in Germany, paid tribute to Friedländer as a courageous and strong woman whose focus on humanity was central to her life. He remarked, "A society without her is hard to imagine. Her death shows us the transience of memory and underscores the great responsibility we have towards her and her generation." Schuster noted that Friedländer never lost faith in a just and peaceful world, urging society to honor her memory by carrying on that belief.
Levit's tribute at the German Film Awards was particularly moving, as he described Friedländer as "a generous, warm-hearted, incredible person" who imparted a sense of purpose with a simple handshake. He expressed that some moments, like the one dedicated to Friedländer, are bigger than any award. Throughout his speech, Levit struggled to maintain his composure, his voice breaking as he remembered her impact.
"She was a wonder, a great, great wonder," Levit said, and he implored the audience to show civil courage against those who threaten the values that Friedländer embodied. He specifically called out the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, stating, "We should not give space to those who want to destroy what Margot Friedländer stood for." His remarks received applause, reflecting the audience's support for his message.
Friedländer's life story is a testament to resilience and the power of human connection. After fleeing Nazi persecution, she spent decades as an emigrant in New York before returning to Germany, where she became an advocate against forgetfulness and for remembrance. In 2024, she had made a passionate appeal at the German Film Awards, urging filmmakers to remember their responsibilities.
Her passing marks a significant loss for the community and serves as a stark reminder of the importance of preserving history and promoting understanding. As the tributes continue to pour in, it is clear that Margot Friedländer's legacy will endure, inspiring future generations to uphold the values of humanity and compassion.
As the evening concluded, the attendees reflected on Friedländer's profound impact, not just as a survivor but as a guiding light for humanity. Her story will continue to resonate, urging all to remember and honor the past while striving for a better, more inclusive future.
