Marian Turski, Holocaust Survivor and Advocate, Passes Away at 98

Turski, who survived Auschwitz and dedicated his life to fighting discrimination, emphasized the dangers of indifference in the face of persecution.

Marian Turski, a Holocaust survivor notable for his unwavering commitment to combating antisemitism and advocating for racial justice, passed away at the age of 98 on February 18, 2025, in his home in Warsaw, Poland. His death was confirmed by the Polin Museum of the History of Polish Jews, where he had served as chairman of the board since 2009.

Turski, who was deported from the Lodz ghetto to Auschwitz during World War II, frequently spoke about his experiences and urged others to remain vigilant against the rise of antisemitism. Reflecting on the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz in 2020, he warned of the alarming increase in antisemitic sentiments globally.

"Auschwitz did not fall from the sky," Turski said in a podcast. "It began with small forms of persecution of Jews. This serves as a reminder that such horrors can occur anywhere if indifference prevails." Advocating for a proactive stance against discrimination, he emphasized the critical importance of defending human rights and democratic principles.

Turski’s steadfast message was clear: "The 11th Commandment is important: Don’t be indifferent. Do not be indifferent to historical lies, nor to the discrimination of any minority, as indifference could lead to another catastrophe." His legacy continues to inspire those dedicated to the fight against injustice and the preservation of human rights worldwide.