Centenarian Holocaust survivor, Friedlaender, honored with the Grand Cross of the Federal Order of Merit - Elderly Holocaust survivor Friedländer granted the Grand Cross of Merit award
Hey there! Let's delve into an incredible story about determination, resilience, and a life lived in service of humanity.
Margot Friedlaender, a 103-year-old powerhouse, has recently been honored with the Grand Cross of the Order of Merit, Germany's highest tribute for achievements in service to the nation.
A Life of Perseverance
Born and raised in Berlin, Margot's journey has been marked by unspeakable hardships during World War II. As the Nazis rose to power, her family was torn apart, and she was sent to the notorious Theresienstadt concentration camp. Miraculously, Margot survived and managed to emigrate to the United States post-war.
From the USA to Berlin
Following her husband's passing, Margot enrolled in a memoir writing course in New York, which led her to pen her heart-wrenching, yet inspiring autobiography. The book touched many hearts and sparked a desire within Margot to return to her birthplace, Berlin, to share her story and inspire understanding and reconciliation.
Advocating for Memory and Humanity
Settling back in Berlin, Margot became a beacon of hope and a bridge to the past, tirelessly speaking at schools, events, and engaging with young people to ensure the Holocaust would never be forgotten. Her advocacy and commitment to combating antisemitism earned her numerous awards, including lower Orders of the Order of Merit in 2011 and 2023.
The Margot Friedlaender Foundation
To continue her legacy beyond her lifetime, Margot established the Margot Friedlaender Foundation. This organization seeks to combat antisemitism, promote democracy, and nurture empathy and mutual understanding—values that Margot passionately championed.
A Lasting Impact
Even in the face of unimaginable adversity, Margot Friedlaender has become a symbol of resilience, humanity, and the power of storytelling. Her presence and words have left an indelible impact on countless individuals, from schoolchildren to political leaders. Her life, her work, and her unwavering commitment continue to inspire generations, ensuring the lessons of the Holocaust remain as vivid as ever.
[1] Enrichment: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Margot_Friedlaender[2] Enrichment: https://www.adl.org/resources/research/podcast/episode/fighting-hate-one-story-at-a-time-with-margot-friedlaender
In 2023, Margot, the 103-year-old Holocaust survivor from Berlin, was awarded the Grand Cross of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany at Bellevue Palace, marking her significant contributions towards the nation. In the realm of politics, Margot's merits were recognized for her advocacy in memory and humanity, particularly her role in combating antisemitism and promoting understanding. Prior to this, Margot had emigrated from the United States to Berlin, where she established the Margot Friedlaender Foundation, an organization dedicated to her lasting legacy of democracy, empathy, and mutual understanding.
