Evening of Virtual Reflection to Mark Holocaust Memorial Day

AN EVENING of reflection to remember the victims of the Holocaust will be held online on Wednesday 20th January.

The event to mark Holocaust Memorial Day will feature speakers, choral performances and an address from keynote speaker Mr George Donath, a child survivor of the Nazi occupation of Hungary.

The evening, which starts at 7.30 pm, will also feature a socially distanced candle lighting & memorial ceremony, reflections on the impact of Covid-19 by Professor David Oliver and songs from Maidenhead Synagogue Choir.

Councillor Jason Brock, Leader of Reading Borough Council, said:

“Holocaust Memorial Day events provide us with an opportunity to remember the millions of victims of the Nazis and of subsequent genocides around the world. It is also a time for us to focus on our resolve to work together in creating a safer, better future that seeks to guard against the continued rise of discrimination, hatred, and racism in the world.

“The theme this year is ‘Be the light in the darkness’, which is clearly resonant with our present circumstances. After facing such a tough year in 2020, and in the face of the ongoing pandemic, we need to stand united. This year’s memorial evening will, by necessity, be different from our previous years, but our commitment to marking this important event remains unwavering. I hope you will join us online for an evening of reflection.” 

Victor Koroma, General Manager at the Alliance for Cohesion and Racial Equality (ACRE) said:

“Democracy is a fragile ideal. Right-wing nationalism, misinformation, and the political extremism they foment is a real threat society as they collectively erode democratic institutions, law and order. This was put to destructive effect in Nazi Germany 1933-45. On the upside, democracy should be nurtured as the cement that holds society together even when we disagree. Therefore, we must all be vigilant in recognising threats to our society/communities and acting promptly to address the causes with the benefit of creating a peaceful and harmonious society for all.”

Holocaust Memorial Day is an annual event which falls on 27th January to mark the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi death camp.

Reading Holocaust Memorial Evening on 20 January is organised by Reading Borough Council and ACRE and supported by Reading Hebrew Congregation, Maidenhead Synagogue, Reading Refugee Support Group and Berkshire Rwandese Community.

Viewing the event online is free. For more information and to register to view, visit https://www.reading.gov.uk/news/holocaust-memorial-day-2021-online-event/

ENDS