U.S. Rep. Michael Lawler from New York's 17th District | Official U.S. House Headshot
U.S. Rep. Michael Lawler from New York's 17th District | Official U.S. House Headshot
On January 28, 2025, Representatives Mike Lawler (NY-17), Grace Meng (NY-06), Don Bacon (NE-02), and Lois Frankel (FL-22) announced the introduction of a bipartisan resolution in the House of Representatives. This resolution commemorates the 80th anniversary of the Liberation of Auschwitz and honors the six million Jewish people murdered during the Holocaust, along with millions from other minority groups targeted by the Nazi regime.
The resolution aims to reaffirm the United States' commitment to combating antisemitism and all forms of bigotry. It supports educational efforts to teach future generations about the Holocaust and pays tribute to survivors who have shared their stories. Currently, around 220,000 Holocaust survivors are alive worldwide.
Auschwitz was liberated by Allied troops on January 27, 1945. Nearly 1,100,000 people were killed there, including 960,000 Jews and thousands from other persecuted minorities. The camp remains a symbol of Nazi brutality.
The measure comes amid rising antisemitism following an October terrorist attack in Israel. Over 10,000 antisemitic incidents have been reported in the U.S., with anti-Jewish hate crimes increasing by 63 percent since 2023 according to FBI data.
"Eighty years ago yesterday, Allied troops freed the remaining prisoners from Auschwitz," said Rep. Lawler (NY-17). "As we introduce legislation to mark this solemn anniversary, may we all reaffirm our commitment to preserving the memory of those who lost their lives in the Holocaust."
Rep. Meng (NY-06) emphasized: “In honor of the survivors...we must give 'Never Again' strength by continuing to teach future generations about...the Holocaust.”
Rep. Frankel (FL-22) noted: “Yesterday...we paused to honor...six million Jews—along with millions of others—who perished in...the Holocaust.”
Rep. Bacon (NE-02) stated: “We can never forget what happened...especially with the rise of antisemitism across the world.”
Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV), James Lankford (R-OK), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), and Ben Cardin (D-MD) introduced a similar resolution in the Senate.
Congressman Lawler is recognized as one of Congress's most bipartisan members and represents New York's 17th Congressional District.
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