The attitude of the Ulma family from Markowa towards the Jews in the context of the ethical and religious dimension of solidarity

Abstract

The aim of this article is to demonstrate that, in its deepest dimension, solidarity is expressed through compassion and the willingness to help another person, especially in situations of undeserved suffering. Such solidarity was exhibited by the Catholic family of Wiktoria and Józef Ulma from Markowa towards Jews during World War II in Poland. During the German occupation, they consciously risked their lives, aware of the severe penalties, by helping Jewish escapees. For providing shelter in their home, the Ulmas paid with their own lives.
The article describes the historical and social context of those events and characterizes the idea of solidarity. Based on a review of the literature, the thesis is posited that the Ulmas’ inspiration to express solidarity towards Jews was primarily ethical and religious in nature. The analysis highlights the assumption that Christians and people of Jewish origin are primarily united by their shared humanity. The Ulmas’ solidarity with Jews was manifested not only in providing shelter, food, and working together but, most importantly, in moral community and shared death in solidarity.