Rabbi Shmuley Boteach, “America’s Rabbi,” praises Poland’s courage in preserving Holocaust memory, highlights its deep ties to Jewish history, and calls for stronger Polish-Jewish-American unity. Read his powerful message of truth and reconciliation.
America’s Rabbi Celebrates Poland’s Heritage and Resilience
Rabbi Shmuley Boteach, known as “America’s Rabbi,” recently appeared on TV Republika, where he delivered a heartfelt message of unity and admiration for Poland. Rabbi Boteach, a prominent voice in the Jewish community and author of over 30 books, has long advocated for truth and mutual respect, even in the context of the often complex history between Poles and Jews.
Hailing from New York City, Rabbi Boteach has deep personal ties to Poland—his grandfather was from Łomża, giving him half-Polish ancestry through his mother. Over the years, he has visited Poland numerous times and has remained a passionate advocate for strengthening Polish-Jewish relations.
Honoring Friendship: A Special Bond with Ambassador Adrian Kubicki
Rabbi Boteach expressed profound respect for Poland’s former Consul General, Ambassador Adrian Kubicki. He described Kubicki as “the only person in New York City devoted to sanctifying the name of Poland and giving luster to the country, its government, and its people.” He went on to say, “If Kubicki continues to follow the path created by God, he will one day invite me to Poland as a great national leader.”
Poland’s Courageous Decision to Preserve Holocaust Memory
In his address, Rabbi Boteach highlighted Poland’s extraordinary decision to preserve the memory of the Holocaust, despite the immense burden it entails. He said:
“Poland could have decided to erase this tragic history by turning places like Auschwitz and Birkenau into farms or woodlands. But Poland chose to honor the memory of Jewish and Polish victims of German atrocities. This was an incredibly courageous decision.”
Rabbi Boteach strongly refuted the term “Polish death camps,” calling it “a complete fabrication and invention.” He criticized its usage, even by prominent figures like former U.S. President Barack Obama. “Poland was not responsible for the Holocaust—it was Germany. The Nazis were not an alien race; they were Germans. And Stalin enabled the Holocaust by signing a pact with Hitler before Operation Barbarossa.”
A Safer Place for Jews: Poland vs. New York City
Rabbi Boteach spoke about his experiences traveling through Poland, stating:
“I feel safer walking the streets of Warsaw or Kraków than I do in New York City. In Poland, I’ve never been threatened with murder, which has happened to me twice in New York.”
He also praised Poland’s efforts to restore Jewish heritage sites, including the Warsaw Jewish Cemetery.
“This cemetery, which was once covered in moss, dirt, and filth, was completely rebuilt using Polish taxpayers’ money. It is a testament to Poland’s respect for its shared history with the Jewish people.”
Addressing Hypocrisy: France vs. Poland
Rabbi Boteach did not shy away from addressing hypocrisy in global narratives. He criticized French President Emmanuel Macron for labeling Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki as anti-Semitic.
“Macron made this accusation because Morawiecki dared to stand against Putin. But it was the French police, not the Nazis, who deported 80,000 Jews from Paris. And yet, Macron has the audacity to criticize Poland, which took in 2.5 million Ukrainian refugees.”
Poland’s Role as a Beacon of Morality in Europe
Rabbi Boteach believes Poland has the potential to lead Europe by example, emphasizing its industriousness, cultural excellence, and strong sense of independence. “Poland needs a new birth of freedom. The Polish people must see themselves as leaders in Europe—a Europe that finally stands for morality and real human rights.”
He also highlighted the role of Pope John Paul II in transforming Catholic-Jewish relations.
“Who was the greatest man in 500 years produced by the Roman Catholic Church? It was a Polish man—Pope John Paul II. He changed Catholic attitudes towards Jews and showed us so much love.”
Rabbi Boteach called for stronger ties between Poles, Jews, and Americans. He emphasized the shared values of faith, family, and resilience.
“Poles are unbreakable,” Rabbi Boteach said. “And that is something they should teach Europe.”
As a steadfast advocate for truth and reconciliation, Rabbi Boteach’s message serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of mutual respect and shared values in overcoming historical divisions.