A new street in Prague has been dedicated to Sir Nicholas Winton, a British humanitarian celebrated for his extraordinary efforts in rescuing 669 children from Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia on the eve of World War II. This significant tribute in the Czech capital recognizes Winton’s remarkable courage and compassion, ensuring his legacy endures in a place where his actions had such a profound impact.
Jan Čižinský, the mayor of the Prague district where the street is located, lauded Winton’s “heroism, courage and humility” during the street naming ceremony. The newly named street, when completed, will purposefully run near the city’s railway station and memorials that stand as somber reminders of the darker chapters of world history. This location underscores the context of Winton’s rescue mission, highlighting the escape he provided from the looming horrors of the Holocaust.
The street dedication is particularly poignant as it coincides with the 85th anniversary of the last planned Kindertransport from Prague. This train, carrying 250 children to safety, was tragically prevented from departure due to the outbreak of World War II. These children were subsequently deported to Nazi concentration camps, with only two known to have survived the atrocities. This historical backdrop further amplifies the importance of Winton’s successful Kindertransports and the lives he saved.
Winton’s selfless acts have recently been brought to wider audiences through the film “One Life,” starring Anthony Hopkins, which depicts his tireless work. Sir Nicholas Winton, a former stockbroker, received knighthood in 2003 and was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2008. He passed away in 2015 at the age of 106, leaving behind a legacy of profound humanitarian impact.
The naming ceremony in Prague was attended by notable figures, including four individuals who were among the “Winton children” rescued as part of the Kindertransport, family members of Sir Nicholas Winton, and representatives from the Association of Jewish Refugees (AJR).
Michael Newman, the chief executive of the AJR, emphasized the symbolic weight of the event: “It is hugely symbolic that [Winton’s] endeavors are recognised and celebrated as well as to acknowledge the heroism of many others with whom he worked.” He further acknowledged the bravery of the parents who entrusted their children to the Kindertransport and the foster families who offered refuge. Newman expressed a powerful hope that “the salvation of the Kindertransport will never again be needed,” a sentiment resonating with the enduring lessons of history.
Lady Milena Grenfell-Baines, a survivor of the Kindertransport who was put on a train at the age of nine with her younger sister, shared her deeply emotional experience at the ceremony. She and fellow “Kinder” felt “filled with pride to pay tribute to our saviour and a great sadness for those we had to leave behind.” Her words encapsulate the complex emotions of gratitude and loss associated with the Kindertransport, highlighting the enduring human impact of Winton’s actions recognized by this new Czech Street name.
In conclusion, the dedication of a street in Prague to Nicholas Winton serves as a lasting tribute to his unparalleled humanitarianism. This Czech street will stand as a daily reminder of his courage and the importance of compassion in the face of adversity, ensuring that the story of the Kindertransport and the lessons of history are never forgotten.
