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Pro Memoria

The black-and-white photograph captures a conversation between two men. On the left is Marian Turski, a Holocaust survivor, historian, and journalist, dressed in a light jacket and a striped shirt. He wears his distinctive thick-framed glasses and holds a cane in his hand. His facial expression is serious, and his hand gestures emphasize the importance of his words. On the right stands Piotr Tarnowski, director of the Stutthof Museum. He is dressed in an elegant suit, tie, and pocket square. With his arms crossed, he listens attentively to his interlocutor, displaying focus and respect. The photograph captures a moment of profound discussion, likely about the memory of Holocaust victims and the role of museums in preserving history. In the background, blurred elements of an outdoor space suggest a historical site or an open-air exhibition.

With deep sorrow, we received the news of the passing of Marian Turski – a man of immense knowledge, undeniable authority, and exceptional empathy, a former Auschwitz prisoner. We knew him as a historian and journalist, but above all, as a tireless guardian of the memory of the Holocaust. His testimonies, conversations, and speeches taught us sensitivity toward others and reminded us that – as he often said – “Auschwitz did not fall from the sky.”

In 2023, during the meeting of the International Auschwitz Council, which was hosted at the Stutthof Museum, he spent a great deal of time with us in conversation, sharing his attention, vast knowledge, and experience. In every discussion, he emphasized the need to uphold humanistic values. He repeatedly urged younger generations to “never remain indifferent to the suffering of another person.”

He was a man of dialogue. He helped people understand the past to build a more just future. Through his conversations, he bridged generations, and through his life, he proved that even in the most difficult circumstances, one can maintain dignity and compassion.

Today, we bid him farewell with gratitude for his openness and kindness, which we could always count on. “Memory,” he warned, “is not revenge, but a warning.” The best tribute we can pay him is to preserve memory and continue his mission of spreading truth and mutual respect.

May he rest in peace.

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In the photo: during a conversation with Director Piotr Tarnowski at the Stutthof Museum in Sztutowo in 2023, during the meeting of the International Auschwitz Council.