Marking Holocaust Memorial Day

Please join us at Loveashford in marking Holocaust Memorial Day on 27 January 2023. 

What is it?

Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) is a time to remember the millions of people murdered during the Holocaust, under Nazi Persecution and in the genocides which followed in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur.

Why is it important?

HMD is a time when we seek to learn the lessons of the past and recognise that genocide does not just take place on its own – it’s a steady process which can begin if discrimination, racism and hatred are not checked and prevented. We’re fortunate here in the UK; we are not at immediate risk of genocide. However, discrimination has not ended, nor has the use of the language of hatred or exclusion. There is still much to do to create a safer future and HMD is an opportunity to start this process.

What’s this year’s theme?

The theme for HMD 2023 is Fragility of Freedom. The theme highlights the that in every genocide that has taken place, those who are targeted for persecution have had their freedom restricted and removed, before many of them are murdered. This is often a subtle, slow process. 

The theme also prompts us to consider what freedom means to us, how freedom can be eroded, those who have risked their lives for freedom and whether the liberated are ever truly free.

How can I get involved?

Light a candle and safely put it in your window at 8pm on 27 January. You can purchase a commemorative candle here. Please then upload a photo of your candle on social media, using the hashtags #HolocaustMemorialDay #HMDAshford

You can also join the nation to watch curated moments from the Holocaust Memorial Day 2024 UK Ceremony. Register your virtual attendance to watch and you will be sent a link in advance.