Reading’s evening of reflection to commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day 2025

AN EVENING of remembrance and reflection to commemorate victims of the Holocaust, and subsequent genocides worldwide, will be held on Wednesday 22 January 2025, the 80^th anniversary year of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, and the 30th anniversary of the genocide in Bosnia.

Reading’s annual, free Civic commemoration will follow the global Holocaust Memorial Day theme for 2025, ‘For a Better Future’. The theme will inspire open discussions about the many things we as a community can do to create a better future, speak up against the Holocaust, challenge prejudice, and help others learn about the past.

The free event, hosted in the Council Chamber at the Civic Offices from 6.30pm, will feature various live elements including speakers, prayers, and choral performances by the Maidenhead Synagogue Choir.

Keynote speakers will include Charlie Knight, historian of the Holocaust and German-Jewish History at the University of Southampton and a fellow of Leo Baeck Institute. Knight will share a thought-provoking talk connecting the narratives of those who remained in Germany during the War with those who left for Britain.

Bakhit Adam, Chairman of the Reading Sudanese Community, will discuss the current situation in Darfur, Sudan.

Candles for peace, and in memory of those we have lost, will be lit by The Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire, Mr Andrew Try, The Mayor of Reading, Councillor Glenn Dennis, alongside keynote speakers.

Members of the public are welcome to attend the event, pre-registration is required via: www.reading.gov.uk/hmd25.

The evening proceedings will also be streamed live on the Council’s Facebook page from 6.30pm: www.facebook.com/Readingcouncil/. They are also available for viewing afterwards.

Councillor Liz Terry, Leader of Reading Borough Council, said:

“On Holocaust Memorial Day, Reading’s multi-faith community comes together to remember those who have tragically died, and those who are still sadly losing their lives, through war, conflict, and hate crime.

“I hope as many people as possible will join us in the Council Chamber for this important evening of reflection. It is an opportunity for us all to learn both from and about the events of the past and take action to ensure a better future for all, standing united against those who seek to divide us, and against all forms of hate.”

George Mathew, Interim CEO at the Alliance for Cohesion and Racial Equality (ACRE), said:

“Now more than ever, Holocaust Memorial Day is for people and communities to come together and remember our shared humanity. Furthermore, it is a clear historical warning of what racism, bigotry, hatred, and wars can lead to.”

ENDS