Awareness
Every year, on January 27, the world pauses to honour the lives lost during one of history’s darkest chapters: the Holocaust. This day is not just about remembering Jewish victims but also about reflecting on the persecution of other marginalized groups, including 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. By revisiting these shared histories of suffering, we uncover lessons that inspire solidarity and collective action today.
Shared Histories of Persecution
During the Holocaust, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals were among those targeted by the Nazi regime. Gay men were forced to wear pink triangles, intended as symbols of shame, which later became powerful emblems of 2SLGBTQIA+ resistance and pride. Many were imprisoned, subjected to inhumane medical experiments, or killed. This chapter in history is a stark reminder that hate thrives when diversity is seen as a threat.
In Canada, strides have been made to ensure these histories aren’t forgotten. Educational programs, exhibits, and collaborations between Jewish and 2SLGBTQIA+ communities have brought these intersecting experiences to light. These efforts emphasize the importance of standing together, helping us understand how prejudice and violence impact all vulnerable groups.
Solidarity in Action
Remembering the past is only part of the story—it’s what we do with those memories that matter. Across Canada, individuals and organizations are preserving Holocaust memory while promoting inclusivity and acceptance. Collaborative efforts between Jewish and 2SLGBTQIA+ communities have given rise to educational exhibits and creative projects that celebrate shared resilience and strength. These initiatives not only spark important conversations but also deepen our understanding of interconnected histories.
They also show how personal actions, no matter how small, can create meaningful change. Whether through art, education, or advocacy, these efforts demonstrate how we can challenge hate and build bridges between diverse communities. Solidarity isn’t just about remembering a shared past; it’s about actively standing together against ongoing discrimination.
Lessons for Today
The lessons of the Holocaust are as relevant as ever. Antisemitism and discrimination against 2SLGBTQIA+ people continue to rise globally, reminding us that vigilance against hate is a constant responsibility. The solidarity shown by marginalized groups—united by a shared commitment to justice and equality—is a powerful force against these threats.
Holocaust Remembrance Day calls on all of us to act—to amplify survivors’ voices, educate ourselves and others, and challenge bigotry in our daily lives. By understanding the devastating impact of hate, we equip ourselves to prevent history from repeating itself.
A Call to Action
This day is more than a time to reflect; it’s a chance to act and unite. By learning from the shared histories of persecution faced by Jewish and 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, we strengthen the bonds of solidarity that help us confront hate in all its forms. Consider attending a local Holocaust memorial event, supporting an organization fighting hate, or amplifying the voices of survivors and activists on social media. Let’s use this moment to take steps, big or small, toward building a world where diversity is celebrated, and everyone’s dignity is upheld.
Through remembrance and action, we can ensure that the promise of “Never Again” is not just a memory but a reality.
References:
https://hmd.org.uk/learn-about-the-holocaust-and-genocides/nazi-persecution/gay-people/
https://wienerholocaustlibrary.org/2021/02/09/persecution-of-gay-people-in-nazi-germany/
https://encyclopedia.ushmm.org/content/en/series/gay-men-and-lesbians-under-the-nazi-regime
https://www.wrdsb.ca/blog/2024/11/04/holocaust-education-week-3/
https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/holocaust-antisemitism-canada.html
https://globalnews.ca/news/10065652/holocaust-educators-applaud-bc-and-ontario/
https://www.holocaust.org.uk/News/homosexual-victims-of-nazi-persecution
