Albanian Students Commemorate Holocaust and Honor Besa Code

In a recent event in Tirana, Albania, students from the Refik Veseli Schule in Berlin and the Gjimnazi Sami Frashëri commemorated the Holocaust and the bravery of Refik Veseli, who helped save a Jewish family during World War II. This gathering coincided with International Holocaust Remembrance Day and aimed to promote awareness against antisemitism.

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Refik Veseli, honored as a Righteous Gentile by Yad Vashem in 1987, played a crucial role in saving the Mandil family from Nazi persecution. His actions exemplified the Albanian code of honor known as "besa," which emphasizes loyalty and protection for those in need. The school named after him in Berlin serves as a symbol of courage and resilience, resonating with its diverse student body, many of whom are children of immigrants.

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Among the participants was Melisa Malo, a 10th-grader from Tirana, who expressed the importance of unity against hatred. Hadiseh Alizadah, a 15-year-old Afghan refugee, highlighted the irony of commemorating Jewish victims while being an immigrant herself. Simon Groscurth, head teacher of Refik Veseli Schule, emphasized the significance of Veseli's story in educating students about the Holocaust and fostering a culture of tolerance.

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Karl Bergner, Germany’s ambassador to Albania, stressed the importance of education in preventing future atrocities, stating, “What can we do to prevent such atrocities in the future? The answer lies in education, confronting the past, and promoting tolerance.” Lisa Shekel, a German language teacher, expressed concern over rising antisemitism in Europe, particularly regarding the far-right Alternative für Deutschland party.

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Despite the positive messages of unity, concerns persist regarding the increasing antisemitism in Germany and Europe. Shekel noted her fears about the potential erosion of democracy, while Ebert, a student with a family history linked to the Nazis, remarked on the need for Germans to confront their past honestly to combat such ideologies.

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The event also included a symbolic planting of an olive tree, representing peace and the commitment to stand against discrimination. Plans for the Jewish Museum of Albania and the Besa Museum are underway, further emphasizing the importance of preserving the memory of those who saved lives during the Holocaust.

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• “We’re promising to be united and stand up against hatred and discrimination.” — Melisa Malo, Student

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• “In a world where we are witnessing a rise in antisemitism and hate speech, besa can be our shield,” — Simon Groscurth, Head Teacher

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• “What can we do to prevent such atrocities in the future? The answer lies in education, confronting the past, and promoting tolerance.” — Karl Bergner, German Ambassador to Albania

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This event not only honored the past but also aimed to inspire future generations to uphold the values of courage and compassion in the face of adversity.

Times of Israel