The author reflects on their father's experience as an immigrant during World War II, emphasizing that authoritarian regimes can harm nations rather than fortify them. The narrative recounts the father's family's involvement in espionage against the Nazis, their imprisonment, and the tragic fate of relatives like Izabela, who perished in Auschwitz. The article contrasts this historical injustice with the current political climate regarding immigrants, showcasing how empathy for such individuals has been a strength of America, now threatened by authoritarian policies.
My dad's journey through war and concentration camps teaches me that authoritarianism does not strengthen a nation and that empathy... has been one of our national strengths.
During World War II, my family members were living throughout Eastern Europe and were secretly involved in a network that was spying on the Nazis.
Izabela died in Auschwitz, and Teresa was subjected to medical experiments by the Nazis.
We believe Boguslaw was enslaved in a mine in Kolyma... This is the prism through which Stalin saw Boguslaw: He's an immigrant in Romania, he's potentially a risk to national security.
Collection
[
|
...
]