"The story of a crime" documentary sheds light on heroism amidst darkness

Baku/08.09.23/Turan: "The Story of a Crime" ("Historia jednej zbrodni"), a documentary film directed by Mariusz Pilis, captivated audiences in Baku. The event, meticulously organized by the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in collaboration with Landmark III, drew representatives from the Jewish community of Azerbaijan, offering a poignant cinematic experience.

The timing of the film's screening was significant, coinciding with the upcoming beatification ceremony of the Polish Ulma family by the Catholic Church, scheduled for September 10. This historic event marks the first-ever beatification of an entire family.

The documentary unfolds the tragic tale of the Ulma family, Polish farmers who paid the ultimate price during World War II for their unwavering commitment to humanity. The Ulma family, led by Jozef and his pregnant wife Victoria, courageously harbored eight Jewish neighbors in their home: Golda Grunfeld, Lea Didner and her young daughter, and Sol Goldman with his four sons.

On the fateful morning of March 24, 1944, German gendarmes stormed the Ulma family's farm in Markova. Tragically, they mercilessly executed both the Jews in hiding and their valiant protectors. Among the victims were not only Jozef Ulma and his pregnant wife Victoria but also their six young children.

During a brief opening speech, Polish Ambassador Rafal Poborski paid heartfelt tribute to the memory of those who fell victim to the horrors of Nazism, symbolized by the brutal fate of both Polish and Jewish families in Markova.

Polish President Andrzej Duda, in a heartfelt article titled "The Story of the Martyrdom of Ulmas Should Be Known Worldwide," emphasized the significance of the upcoming beatification. He stated, "As Poles, we take immense pride in the beatification of the Ulma family, our compatriots, by the Catholic Church on September 10, 2023. This event transcends religious boundaries; it pays homage to heroes who epitomize the highest ideals of humanity. The story of their martyrdom deserves global recognition because, despite its horrors, it serves as an inspirational testament to love for one's neighbor. May it touch hearts and serve as a model of openness and solidarity."

Historians continue to piece together the details of the harrowing events of those tumultuous years. To date, over seven thousand Poles, including Victoria and Jozef Ulma, have been honored with the title of "Righteous Among the Nations of the World," a prestigious recognition bestowed by the Yad Vashem Institute in Jerusalem. Among the righteous, Poles constitute the largest national group.

The Polish government and its institutions remain steadfast in their commitment to preserving the memory of these unsung heroes, often known only through their selfless courage and ultimate sacrifice. This solemn remembrance is a testament to the enduring legacy of those who chose love and compassion in the face of darkness, exemplifying the heights of human decency and solidarity.--0--