Tribute to Peggy Parnass: A Life Dedicated to Humanity

Hamburg is mourning the loss of Peggy Parnass, a prominent journalist, author, passionate advocate for democracy, and Holocaust survivor, who passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones at the age of 97. Despite the challenges posed by aging, Peggy, affectionately known by her first name, never accepted age as a defining aspect of her identity. In a 2016 interview, she expressed her frustration with society's focus on age rather than personal well-being, stating that rather than inquiring about her age, people should ask how she was doing or what interested her.

Born on October 11, 1927, in St. Pauli, Hamburg, Peggy was the daughter of Jewish parents. Her mother, Hertha Parnass, was from Hamburg, while her father, Simon, came from Poland. Growing up in a loving, albeit financially strained, household, Peggy experienced a childhood marked by warmth and affection. However, her life took a tragic turn when, in 1939, she and her younger brother Gady were sent on a children's transport to Sweden by their mother, who understood the imminent danger posed by the Nazis. Tragically, their parents were murdered in the Treblinka concentration camp, along with many other family members.

In Sweden, Peggy and Gady were separated but survived the war. Peggy grew up in twelve different foster families, where her linguistic talents allowed her to quickly learn Swedish. As the war neared its end, she moved with Gady to London to live with an uncle. After a brief return to Sweden, she became a citizen there, pursued studies in Stockholm, London, Paris, and Hamburg, and ultimately returned to her hometown of Hamburg.

Throughout her life, Peggy engaged deeply with the community. She was known for her keen interest in the lives of those around her. Her conversations often revolved around meaningful topics rather than mundane matters. Peggy's love for humanity remained unwavering despite the profound personal losses she endured. Throughout her career, she worked as a translator, actress, language teacher, and journalist, always driven by her passion for social justice and equality.

As a celebrated court reporter, she covered more than 500 trials, including high-profile cases involving heinous criminals. Her empathy was evident when she once embraced a defendant out of compassion for his dire circumstances. Peggy viewed her work as a means to shed light on the atrocities committed by the Nazis, noting that the justice system often did not reflect true accountability. Her commitment to fighting for marginalized communities and against discrimination was fueled by her belief in justice and humanity.

In recognition of her tireless advocacy for tolerance and diversity, Peggy received accolades from various organizations and was regarded as a symbol of remembrance culture and minority rights. She was a familiar face at events celebrating LGBTQ+ rights, often seen proudly marching alongside Hamburg's mayor.

Peggy's life was a testament to resilience and love, showcasing how deep connections with others can survive even the most harrowing experiences. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who champion human rights and social justice.