The brothers Hamid and Xhemal Veseli
Besa: A Code of Honor
Training event for teachers
Host: Never Give Up, Zurich
18 November, 2022 | 7 pm – 8:30 pm
19 November, 2022 | 2 pm – 6 pm (break included)
Between 1933 and 1945, the Albanian population saved people’s lives in an extraordinary act. It was a matter of course to them, according to “Besa”, their code of honor.
Word gets around quickly among European Jews: Albania is a place of refuge. At the same time, Germans are turning in and betraying one another – driven by envy, greed for gain, and revenge. Allegations are devised in ruthless pursuit to get hold of their neighbor’s house or their boss’ position. They betray each other in such an excessive manner, that the Nazi authorities have to curb the flood of denunciations temporarily.
Further down south-east, while Germans are ravaging with ice-cold, annihilating force, Muslim Albanians are risking their lives and livelihood to save Jewish people. An act of humanity and integral part of “Besa”, their code of honor, which means: I will keep my word. Honoring, protecting, and saving another’s life was nothing but natural for these Albanians. Turning in their fellow man would have been a shame!
“My father sheltered four Jewish families. They all were his friends. I remember my father’s words to those he took in: ‘Now we are one family. You won’t suffer any evil. My sons and I will defend you against peril at the cost of our lives.’” – Sazan Hoxha, Albania
The brothers Hamid and Xhemal Veseli
Nuro Hoxha
Besim and Aishe Kadiu
Destan and Lime Balla
Ali Sheqer Pashkaj
Photographer: Norman H. Gershman