OASW Statement on International Holocaust Remembrance Day

January 27 marks the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz and is International Holocaust Remembrance Day. On this day, we remember the over 6 million Jewish people who were systematically murdered, as well as millions of other victims of the Nazi regime.

OASW honours the experiences and resilience of survivors, many of whom have bravely shared their stories as a purposeful and enduring reminder to the world about the dangers of unchallenged hate and the deadly consequences of antisemitism.

The responsibility to remember has never been more critical, with instances of antisemitism on the rise in Canada and worldwide. OASW condemns this rise in antisemitism, and we remain committed to denouncing acts of violence, hate, and discrimination against all peoples.

Developing knowledge and awareness of antisemitism is key in the context of our commitment to anti-racism, diversity, equity and inclusion; and as social workers, we have an important role to play in recognizing and dismantling antisemitism in all its forms. As an Association, we are committed to advancing education on this topic for Ontario’s social workers through ongoing opportunities for joint meaningful dialogue and learning. We continue to stand with our Jewish members, Board, staff and the broader Jewish community to remember and vow, “never again.”

Resources for Learning

• Webinar: Redefining and Revitalizing Multiculturalism, January 31, 2023 – Presented by the OASW Learning Centre and Dr. Karen Mock

• On-Demand Webinars: Affirming Jewish Identities and Dismantling Antisemitism Part 1 and Part 2 – Presented by the OASW Learning Centre and Dr. Karen Mock

• Caring for Holocaust Survivors – A guide developed by Baycrest for family members, health care professionals and support staff in the challenging and rewarding tasks involved in ensuring optimum care for aging Survivors

• UN Outreach Program on the Holocaust – Established by United Nations General Assembly Resolution 60/7, with a simple and stark aim: to “mobilize civil society for Holocaust remembrance and education, in order to help to prevent future acts of genocide” offering educational resources, professional development programmes, a film series, panel discussions and exhibitions, and more

• Canadian Museum for Human Rights – Canada, Antisemitism and the Holocaust