Pelosi Statement on Congressional Gold Medal for Raoul Wallenberg

Contact: Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement honoring Raoul Wallenberg who was posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in a ceremony in the Capitol Rotunda earlier today:

"Even in the deepest darkness of hate, there shine stars of hope, compassion, and courage. Armed only with diplomatic papers and his own creativity and determination, Raoul Wallenberg helped thousands escape the Holocaust in the chaotic and brutal final month of World War Two.

"Time and again, he risked his life to shelter Budapest's Jews. He protected them from the Nazi legions and the Hungarian fascists. He rescued them from Eichmann's death march to Austria. He stood by them as the Soviet army lay siege to the city. Raoul Wallenberg's bravery is directly responsible for the survival of thousands of men women and children, including future Congressman Tom Lantos: the only Holocaust survivor ever elected to Congress.

"We may never know the details of Wallenberg's death, but we can never forget the heroism of his life. He reminds us that one person can make a difference – challenging us to have the courage to stand against injustice, even when it is not easy, even when it is not safe. With this Congressional Gold Medal, we honor his legacy, and recommit ourselves to our duty to stand against persecution across the world."

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