Holocaust Memorial monument unveiled in Puerto Rico

(JTA) — A monument to victims of the Holocaust was dedicated in Puerto Rico.

The monument was unveiled Monday in front of the Puerto Rico Capitol Building.

“Puerto Rico is honored to have one of the largest and most important Jewish communities in the Caribbean,” said Puerto Rico Gov. Luis Fortuno during the ceremony. “It’s a community that has contributed to every aspect of our society; the economy, commerce, housing, education, architecture, arts and even music. Today we honor the more than 6 million Jews who lost their lives during one of history’s darkest chapters.”

The monument stands next to two other monuments honoring heroes of Puerto Rico, including members of the US armed forces from the protectorate who were killed during wars, and members of the Puerto Rican police who lost their lives in the line of duty.

“Let this monument and this place serve to renew our eternal commitment to peace, tolerance, respect for life and love of neighbor, so that another tragedy like the Holocaust never again repeats itself,” Fortuno said. “This is our plea for peace, and we trust that our peoples share many more years of fellowship, mutual contribution, comprehension and tolerance.”