‘We Will Never Forget’: New York Governor Hochul Signs Legislation to Bolster Holocaust Education in State

New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed a package of bills on Wednesday to “honor and support Holocaust survivors in educational, cultural, and financial institutions” in the state, her office said.

The new laws will “help ensure schools are providing high-quality Holocaust education” and “require museums to acknowledge art stolen by the Nazi regime,” the governor’s office noted.

Furthermore, the New York State Department of Financial Services will be required to “publish a list of financial institutions that voluntarily waive fees for Holocaust reparation payments.”

“As New Yorkers, we are united in our solemn commitment to Holocaust survivors: We will never forget,” Governor Hochul said. “These are individuals who have endured unspeakable tragedy but nonetheless have persevered to build lives of meaning and purpose right here in New York. We owe it to them, their families, and the six million Jews who perished in the Holocaust to honor their memories and ensure future generations understand the horrors of this era.”

State Senator Anna M. Kaplan — a co-sponsor of Legislation (A.472C /S.121B) — said, “With antisemitism on the rise, and Holocaust misinformation exploding around the world, it’s never been more important that we learn the lessons of the Holocaust, and ensure our next generation knows about our history, no matter how dark or difficult the conversation may be.”

Fellow co-sponsor Assemblymember Nily Rozic said, “Never Again must serve as a call to action, not just empty words we say. As antisemitism rises across New York and Holocaust survivors age, this new law will ensure that New York students are taught about what happens when hatred goes unchecked.”

A full recording of Wednesday’s signing ceremony can be viewed here: