Lawmakers and Officials Commemorate Holocaust Remembrance Day on Capitol Hill

Trump administration officials and a bipartisan group of lawmakers attended the annual Days of Remembrance ceremony on Capitol Hill on Tuesday, April 14, 2026. S. troops who served in World War II. Speakers at the ceremony reaffirmed the commitment to prevent another Holocaust, stating that such an event would "never again" occur.

The bipartisan participation highlighted a unified approach to addressing antisemitism.

Over 20 Holocaust survivors were present, and lawmakers acknowledged their experiences during the proceedings.

Condemnation of Antisemitism Lawmakers from both parties used their remarks to condemn antisemitism in the United States.

They emphasized that combating antisemitism and Holocaust denial is a national issue, not limited to one political party. One speaker noted that efforts to address these issues require action from all Americans. Speakers stated that denying or distorting Holocaust history has become more tolerated in some educational settings.

The event underscored the ongoing need to educate and remember to counter these trends.

Honoring a Nuremberg Prosecutor The Congressional Gold Medal was presented to honor Benjamin Ferencz, the last surviving prosecutor from the Nuremberg trials.

He served in the U.S. Army during World War II and acted as chief prosecutor in the 1947 Einsatzgruppen case. That trial convicted 22 Nazi commanders for the murder of over one million people. Family members of Ferencz, including his daughter, nephew, and niece, accepted the medal on his behalf.

The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian award given by Congress. During a photo session with lawmakers, Ferencz’s daughter cried out her father’s famous line to the silent crowd: “Law not war.”

Context of Rising Antisemitism The ceremony occurred amid reports of increasing antisemitism in the U.

S., with 91% of Jewish people surveyed stating they feel less safe. The event provided a platform for bipartisan statements on the issue without direct partisan criticism.

Trump administration officials praised President Donald Trump as the “greatest friend” to Jewish people. Their remarks received limited applause, while bipartisan statements on "never again" drew standing ovations. The gathering included photos of Holocaust victims held by attendees, reinforcing the remembrance aspect.

The Days of Remembrance serves as an annual reminder of the Holocaust's impact and the importance of vigilance against hatred. With fewer survivors each year, the event focuses on preserving historical truth and promoting education. Future ceremonies are expected to continue this tradition, adapting to contemporary challenges.