Today, we pause and reflect on a significant event in history. It’s been 81 years since Anne Frank, a young girl filled with dreams, hopes, and wisdom beyond her years, was compelled along with her family to go into hiding in an Amsterdam attic to escape the monstrous atrocities of the Holocaust. The pages of her diary, discovered in the secret annex, chronicle the darkest times of the 20th century while simultaneously shining a light on the enduring human spirit.

During her time in hiding, Anne noted in her diary, “In spite of everything, I still believe that people are really good at heart.” This simple, profound belief resonates today more than ever as we witness events across the globe that compel us to question the very essence of humanity.

Canadians and global citizens are called upon to never forget these horrific events. Today, more than ever, we need to reflect upon and learn from our past to shape our future. We must ensure that such atrocities never happen again anywhere in the world. We said we’d never forget. Have we lived up to that?

The lessons learned from the Holocaust and Anne’s story remind us that hatred, aggression, and intolerance are the true enemies of peace. We must stand firmly against them, pledging to uphold the values of respect, acceptance, and diversity. Hate and prejudice should have no place in our society.

We must educate ourselves and future generations about these significant historical events to understand the consequences of hate, intolerance, and bigotry. Doing so will cultivate a society where every individual is valued and respected, where diversity is celebrated, and where peace triumphs over hostility.

Anne Frank’s story is a beacon, illuminating the path we need to tread and guiding us toward a kind, tolerant, and accepting world. Today, as we remember Anne and her family, let’s pledge to carry forward her legacy of hope and resilience. Let’s stand against aggression and hate wherever they rear their ugly heads.

Join us in this mission. Advocate for education about the Holocaust and similar atrocities. Stand up against hate in your communities. Reach out to those who may be different from you in race, religion, or ideology, and strive to understand their perspectives. Remember, “What is done cannot be undone, but one can prevent it from happening again” – Anne Frank.

Today, and every day, let’s honour Anne Frank’s memory and the memory of countless others who suffered during the Holocaust by creating a better, kinder, and more accepting world.

#AnneFrank81 #NeverAgain #StandAgainstHate