Holocaust Memorial Day takes place on 27 January each year, marking the liberation of Auschwitz Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration and extermination camp.
It is a time to remember the millions of people who suffered and lost their lives in the Holocaust and subsequent genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur as well as present-day situations around the world and closer to home.
That is when the trouble started for the Jews. Our freedom was severely restricted by a series of anti-Jewish decrees.
– Anne Frank, diary entry, Saturday 20 June, 1942 – reflecting back on May 1940 when the Germans arrived in the Netherlands.
This year's theme, 'Fragility of Freedom,' recognises that genocide does not occur on its own but is preceded by a gradual erosion of freedoms. It reminds us of the need to stand up to and prevent discrimination, racism and hatred. It also prompts us to recognise that in every genocide there are individuals who bravely risk their own freedom to aid others, safeguard their liberties, or defy the oppressive regime, illustrating resilience amidst the vulnerability of freedom.
If you would like to attend the event please register here
#HMD2024 @NewhamLondon
