Editor’s note: This letter was sent in response to an article written by contributor Isobel Costa about Portuguese diplomat Aristides de Sousa Mendes, who during WW2 reportedly saved the lives of 30,000 people, including 10,000 Jews.
Dear Isobel,
As a Portuguese-born English citizen, I thank you for the above named article, which I read more as a Portuguese than as a British citizen. The Portuguese soul dominates.
Both England and Portugal have, throughout history, showed instances of braveness and integrity, also towards international folks in need. That spirit should continue, especially in these troubled times of East-West conflict, Eurasia vs.
Europe, Muslims vs. Christians. Helping people in need still remains a private enterprise, by a family bent on values.
Happy that, at long last, the Algarve Resident publishes articles on the Portuguese history which made a difference to many.
Once again, thank you for your piece. The Portuguese were once a proud people.
Maria Valentina Umer, MBA
Heidelberg, Germany
November 30, 2023 Edition
PORTUGAL RESIDENT
Printed Edition