Nashville Standard

United States Senator Bill Hagerty has commended the House of Representatives for passing the Forgotten Heroes of the Holocaust Congressional Gold Medal Act (S.91). This legislation aims to honor 60 diplomats from World War II who risked their careers and lives to save Jews during the Holocaust. The bill proposes a posthumous award of a Congressional Gold Medal to these diplomats for their courageous actions, which included issuing passports, travel visas, and establishing safehouses to protect Jews from Nazi authorities.

The bill is co-sponsored by Senator Tim Kaine, with companion legislation in the House led by Representatives María Salazar and Ritchie Torres.

Senator Hagerty stated, "I applaud the House of Representatives for voting today to posthumously honor U.S. and foreign diplomats who risked their lives and careers to assist Jews who were fleeing Nazi tyranny during the Holocaust." He expressed satisfaction that these diplomats will be recognized for their courage.

Senator Kaine remarked on the significance of this recognition: “Courageous diplomats from nations across the world took initiative and serious risks to save Jews in Nazi-occupied Europe.” He emphasized that as memories of the Holocaust fade, it is crucial for everyone to remember both humanity's capacity for evil and its capacity for empathy and courage.

Representative Salazar noted, “During the brutality of the Holocaust, more than 60 brave diplomats risked their lives to save innocent Jews,” highlighting Congress's message that these diplomats deserve recognition.

Representative Torres added his support by stating, “This legislation honors the brave diplomats who risked their lives to save countless Jewish lives during the Holocaust.” He underscored its importance amid rising antisemitism as a reminder of fighting intolerance.

The bill now awaits President Biden’s signature.