NEW YORK - Congressman Charles B. Rangel released the following statement today, in recognition of the 66th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz:

"As we recognize the 66th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz on International Holocaust Remembrance Day, I am proud to be an original co-sponsor of a resolution marking this historic date. 

Auschwitz is the site of the largest mass murder in human history.  Before the Soviet army liberated the concentration camp on January 27, 1945, unspeakable atrocities were committed there by the Nazis.  Between 1940 and1945, 1.3 million innocent people were sent to Auschwitz.  Of those, 1.1 million died there, including at least 960,000 Jews, 74,000 Poles, 21,000 Roma, 15,000 Soviet prisoners of war, and as many as 15,000 persons from nations throughout Europe.  

We must continue to remember the Holocaust and never forget those who suffered this horrible human tragedy.  According to the United Jewish Appeal (UJA) Federation of New York, New York is home to half of the Holocaust survivors in the United States. There are approximately 38,000 seniors, most of whom are between the ages of 70 and 89. Now, more than ever, it is vital to preserve their stories for future generations.

Anti-Semitism, racism, and hate still exist in the world, and I hope we can learn from the lessons of the Holocaust to better understand and tolerate our differences. There should never be another Holocaust in the history of mankind."