(Washington, D.C., Sept. 10, 2021)—B’nai B’rith International President Charles O. Kaufman and CEO Daniel S. Mariaschin have issued the following statement:   
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We commend the government of Slovakia for its statement apologizing for its World War II-era anti-Jewish laws that stripped Jews of numerous rights, adopted 80 years ago.  

The laws, also known as the “Jewish Code,” denied Jews their economic, social, political and cultural rights. Slovakia, which became a Nazi puppet state during World War II, deported Jewish citizens to Nazi death camps. 68,000-71,000 Slovak Jews were murdered in the Holocaust. 

Slovakia’s declaration is an important step toward making amends for crimes of its wartime government and honoring the memory of Slovak Jews who suffered greatly under the laws.  

B’nai B’rith International has advocated for global Jewry and championed the cause of human rights since 1843. B’nai B’rith is recognized as a vital voice in promoting Jewish unity and continuity, a staunch defender of the State of Israel, a tireless advocate on behalf of senior citizens and a leader in disaster relief. With a presence around the world, we are the Global Voice of the Jewish Community. Visit bnaibrith.org.