Rescuing Marc Chagall: The Courage of Righteous Among the Nations

Marc Chagall, a renowned Jewish artist, faced significant dangers during the Nazi occupation of France. Born in Russia, Chagall's Jewish identity profoundly influenced his art, including works like "The Praying Jew." His granddaughter, Bella Meyer, recounted how Chagall viewed France as a land of freedom until the Nazis labeled his art as "degenerate." In 1941, the Vichy police detained him in Marseilles, but he was ultimately rescued by a network of non-Jewish individuals who risked their lives to save him and his artwork.

The Righteous: Rescuing Marc Chagall from the NazisThis week on "Sunday Morning" (Jan. 25)

One of the key figures in Chagall's escape was Varian Fry, an American journalist who organized efforts to help artists and intellectuals flee Nazi-occupied France. Fry was later recognized as one of the "Righteous Among the Nations" by Yad Vashem, Israel's official memorial to Holocaust victims. His son, James Fry, noted that his father's contributions were largely overlooked in the post-war period as society sought to move on from the trauma of the Holocaust.

This week on "Sunday Morning" (Jan. 25)

The film "This Ordinary Thing," directed by Nick Davis, highlights the stories of 45 individuals who acted heroically during the Holocaust. Among them is Irene Gut Opdyke, who risked her life by hiding Jews in her home while posing as the mistress of an SS officer. Alex Roslan, another rescuer, shared a poignant memory of holding a Jewish child who died in his arms, emphasizing the personal sacrifices made by those who chose to help.

The Righteous: Rescuing Marc Chagall from the Nazis

Debórah Dwork, author of "Saints and Liars: The Story of Americans Who Saved Refugees from the Nazis," discussed the varied motivations of rescuers. Some acted out of genuine altruism, while others were driven by self-interest or greed. Dwork argued that regardless of their motivations, the impact of their actions was significant, as they saved lives and provided hope during a dark period.

The Righteous: Rescuing Marc Chagall from the Nazis

The stories of those who helped Chagall and countless others during the Holocaust serve as a reminder of the moral choices individuals face in times of crisis. Bella Meyer expressed a desire to thank Varian Fry for his bravery, reflecting the gratitude felt by many survivors toward their rescuers. The film and discussions surrounding these narratives aim to shift the focus from the perpetrators of evil to those who chose to do good.

This week on "Sunday Morning" (Jan. 25)

• “Not only because he was an old man, but I knew there were 12 lives depending on me …” — Irene Gut Opdyke

The Righteous: Rescuing Marc Chagall from the Nazis

• “Nick Davis said, "I have a wife and two amazing daughters, and I don't know that I would risk their lives for a perfect stranger.” — Nick Davis

The Righteous: Rescuing Marc Chagall from the Nazis

The narrative of Marc Chagall's rescue encapsulates the bravery of individuals who stood against oppression, reminding us of the profound impact of compassion and courage in the face of adversity.

This week on "Sunday Morning" (Jan. 25)