Honoring the Victims of Communism: A Nation’s Remembrance
Tuesday’s parliamentary session in Hungary began with a solemn commemoration of the victims of communism. The day of remembrance continued with a memorial service at the Memorial of the National Martyrs and the House of Terror in Budapest.
Reflecting on the atrocities of the communist dictatorship, István Jakab, the parliament’s chairman, emphasized the importance of not trivializing the crimes committed during that era. He stressed the historical responsibility to educate future generations about the dangers of tyranny.
At the Memorial of the National Martyrs, Földváryné Réka Kiss, the chairman of the Committee of National Remembrance, highlighted the individual suffering of hundreds of thousands of Hungarians who were unjustly sent to Gulag labor camps.
Speaking at the House of Terror Museum, Minister Gergely Gulyás underscored the need to remember the horrors of communism, as its impact continues to persist in society. Mária Schmidt, the Director General of the museum, pointed out that communism was a deliberate and organized evil act, urging vigilance against its resurgence.
As Hungary marks the 70th anniversary of the 1956 revolution, Maria Schmidt warned against the illusion that communism has been eradicated, as its proponents still exist and seek to regain power. She condemned any glorification of communist symbols or figures, emphasizing the need to honor the victims and resist any revival of communist ideology.
In a world where political rights and free speech are still under threat, Hungary recently granted asylum to the first persecuted Polish politician since the fall of communism, demonstrating a commitment to upholding democracy and human rights.
As the nation pays tribute to those who suffered under communism, the message is clear: the memory of the past must not be forgotten, and the fight against tyranny continues. Glory to the heroes who resisted communism, and may their courage inspire future generations to safeguard freedom and justice.
