It's like saying a rape victim was merely someone's "sexual partner". That would also be a pejorative.
That’s ridiculous,
“partner” implies a pre existing relationship based on equality.
“folks” are just that, people in general.
Yes, the people here were murdered because the attackers assumed they were Jews.
that does not change the fact they are “folks” — maybe “chosen folks” is what you are after...please post a copy of your speech code, I will try to comply.