By Joshua Robinson –
Saturday 27th January is Holocaust Memorial Day, and is a day that allows remembrance for the millions of innocent people who were murdered during the Holocaust and subsequent genocides in Rwanda, Bosnia, Darfur and Cambodia. It also honours the survivors and all those whose lives have been touched and changed beyond recognition.
The Kirklees Cohesion team have been working with partners to support a partner-led event which will remember the lives lost.
Councillor Cathy Scott, Leader of Kirklees Council, said: “Holocaust Memorial Day helps us educate and understand the dreadful atrocities of the past, to show our solidarity with all who have died and reaffirm our resolve to work towards peace and understanding.”
“We champion our borough as a place of welcome and safety to those who may have faced persecution and have been subjected to hate.”
“I encourage you to learn more about the impact of the Holocaust and genocides to help build understanding and tolerance and a brighter future.”
Royal Recognition for Holocaust Centre North
At the end of 2023, Holocaust Centre North was awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, in recognition of their work with first, second, and third generation survivors, and the contribution made in the preservation of history.
Councillor Cahal Burke, Mayor of Kirklees, said: “The Holocaust Centre North is truly deserving of the award, and I want to commend them in delivering integral education programmes and exhibitions that inspire others to value human rights, freedom, and equality.”
“Observing Holocaust Memorial Day is very important as it raises awareness of intolerances and prejudices, but it is also an opportunity to show how diversity in our communities can come together to make them strong.”
“As Mayor I am proud to say I have seen just this – people of different faiths and backgrounds coming together in times of tragedy and celebration, and how people make their voices heard to make a difference in our borough.”
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Events and Learning Opportunities
Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) 2024 UK Ceremony
Saturday 27 January, 7.30 pm
Register to watch curated moments from UK Ceremony, before taking part in the Light the Darkness national moment at 8 pm.
A themed collection of books
Libraries in Kirklees have a collection of books that allow younger readers to understand and start conversations to help with their learning. The collection is a mix of books aimed at upper primary and secondary. There are some ideal titles to share and discuss with an adult.
Browse their eBook collection, search their online catalogue or come into one of the libraries.
Holocaust Memorial Day Trust
Moving Portraits – This project features a collection of five photographs of genocide survivors, with each individual featured holding an object that holds significance to them.
Life stories – These experiences of Holocaust and genocide survivors give a unique insight into the lives of those who have endured persecution.
Holocaust Centre North
Dedicated to sharing a history of the Holocaust through local stories of survivors and refugees who made new lives in the North of England, featuring exhibitions, archives, public engagement and learning programmes, community support activities, research, and artistic collaborations.
Visit Holocaust Centre North for more information.
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