North Miami-Dade News

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the Forgotten Heroes of the Holocaust Congressional Gold Medal Act, also known as S.91/H.R. 537, following its approval by the Senate in September. This legislation, sponsored by Representatives María Elvira Salazar (R-FL) and Ritchie Torres (D-NY), along with Senators Bill Hagerty (R-TN) and Tim Kaine (D-VA), aims to honor over 60 diplomats from various countries for their efforts in saving Jewish lives during the Holocaust. The bill now awaits President Biden's signature.

Rep. María Elvira Salazar stated, "During the brutality of the Holocaust, more than 60 brave diplomats risked their lives to save innocent Jews." She emphasized that Congress has sent a strong message to recognize these diplomats' heroism through this legislation.

The act seeks to award the Congressional Gold Medal to these diplomats who issued passports and travel visas at great personal risk, actions that saved hundreds of thousands of Jewish lives. Since its introduction, it has garnered support from nearly 300 legislators in the House and over 70 Senators.

As a Subcommittee Chairwoman on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Rep. Salazar is noted for her leadership against antisemitism worldwide and her work on U.S.-Israel policy.

Rep. Ritchie Torres expressed satisfaction with the bipartisan bill's passage: "This legislation honors the brave diplomats who risked their lives to save countless Jewish lives during the Holocaust."

Senator Bill Hagerty commended the House for honoring those who went beyond their official duties: "I applaud...honor U.S. and foreign diplomats who risked their lives and careers."

Senator Tim Kaine remarked on this overdue recognition: "Courageous diplomats...took initiative and serious risks to save Jews in Nazi-occupied Europe."

This will be Congresswoman Salazar’s eighth bill signed into law during her tenure in Congress.