Holocaust Memorial Day 2023
Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) takes place on 27 January each year and 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.
This year's theme is ‘ordinary people’ and highlights that genocide is facilitated by ordinary people.
Holocaust Memorial Day 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.
Cllr Mark Hawthorne, Leader of Gloucestershire County Council, Pete Bungard, Chief Executive and Mark Preece, Chief Fire Officer of Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service talk about the importance of Holocaust Memorial Day:
We will also be flying the flag half-mast over the council offices at Shire Hall as a mark of respect.
You can find more information about Holocaust Memorial Day on the Holocaust Memorial Day website.
Gloucester Guildhall marks Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD)
The community is welcome to come along to the Guildhall on Eastgate Street, Gloucester, between 11am and 1pm to mark Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) and pay your respects to the millions of lives lost to genocide.
There’ll be hot drinks on arrival, and you’ll have the opportunity to look at 'ordinary' objects and hear the amazing stories behind them.
At 11:30am there will be a number of guest speakers including a representative from the local Jewish community. This will be followed by a light lunch in the Blue Coat Room.
To attend please book your free ticket