Marian Turski, the renowned Auschwitz survivor and journalist, passed away at the age of 98, leaving behind an indelible legacy of advocacy for Holocaust remembrance and human rights. Born Mosze Turbowicz on June 26, 1926, Turski witnessed the horrors of the Holocaust, including life in the Łódź ghetto and the brutal conditions at Auschwitz and Buchenwald. His compelling life story serves not only as a historical account but as a call to action against indifference and hate.
According to 'Polityka,' the publication where Turski served as a prominent editor for decades, his death is met with deep sadness: "Z ogromnym smutkiem żegnamy Mariana Turskiego, wieloletniego redaktora 'Polityki', naszego skromnego i serdecznego kolegę, a przy tym wyjątkowego strażnika pamięci, wybitnego człowieka, którego głos był słyszalny na całym świecie." His voice echoed not just within Poland but on international platforms, advocating for democracy and human rights.
Throughout his life, Turski was heavily involved in historical and educational initiatives surrounding Jewish history and the Holocaust. He played a pivotal role at the Museum of the History of Polish Jews (POLIN) as its vice-chairman, where he aimed to educate future generations about the rich and painful past of Polish Jews. He often emphasized the importance of remembrance, stating, "Auschwitz nie spadło z nieba," reminding audiences of the need for vigilance against historical revisionism.
His experiences during World War II, including suffering through two death marches from Auschwitz to Buchenwald and later to Theresienstadt, shaped his lifelong mission to prevent the resurgence of such atrocities. He frequently shared his story, not for personal recognition but to inspire awareness and action against hate. Turski repeatedly warned about the dangers of silence with slogans like, "Nie bądźcie obojętni, kiedy widzicie, że przeszłość jest naciągana do aktualnych potrzeb polityki," which translates to "Do not be indifferent when you see the past being twisted for current political needs."
Turski's impact extended beyond his contributions to journalism and history. He was heavily involved with several organizations dedicated to Holocaust remembrance and education, including the International Auschwitz Council and the Jewish Historical Institute. His work garnered numerous accolades, and he was recognized with prestigious honors, such as the Commander’s Cross of the Order of the Rebirth of Poland and commendations from Germany and France. His commitment to fostering dialogue on Polish-Jewish relations was pivotal.
Marian Turski's reflections during public addresses resonate with urgency and passion. During the 75th anniversary of Auschwitz’s liberation, he implored the audience to honor the memory of those lost and to stand firm against rising anti-Semitism and xenophobia, stating, "To chciałbym powiedzieć mojej córce, wnukom i ich rówieśnikom, gdziekolwiek mieszkają," meaning, "This is what I want to say to my daughter, grandchildren, and their peers, wherever they live." His message transcended borders and generations, encouraging individuals worldwide to uphold the values of tolerance, empathy, and moral responsibility.
Following his passing, Polish politicians and public figures have shared their condolences, underscoring the void left by Turski’s departure. Notably, the Speaker of the Polish Parliament, Szymon Hołownia, stated, "Dawał świadectwo do końca," reflecting the deep respect held for Turski’s lifelong dedication to preserving memory. Warsaw’s mayor, Rafał Trzaskowski, noted Turski's reminders against indifference and expressed gratitude for their interactions, affirming, "Obiecuję to panu"—"I promise you we will not be indifferent."
Marian Turski’s legacy will undoubtedly endure through the institutions he helped build and the principles he championed. The call he issued for compassion and mindfulness is more relevant now than ever as societies navigate their own histories and confront contemporary challenges. His tireless work and poignant messages are not just commemorations; they are urgent reminders for all to act. With the loss of such a prominent figure, the responsibility falls to those who remain to keep his message alive: to be vigilant, compassionate, and unyielding against hatred. Turski’s life was about ensuring the voices of the past were never forgotten, and he leaves behind the heavy yet honorable task of carrying his torch forward.