Tower Hamlets Council, working with faith and community groups in the borough, will hold a series of free events this month to mark Holocaust Memorial Day on 27 January.
The theme for Holocaust Memorial Day 2024 is Fragility of Freedom.
Freedom cannot be taken for granted. People targeted during genocide have their freedoms taken away - freedom of religion and freedom to self-identify are restricted, and other freedoms under threat include those of reproduction, movement, and expression.
People in Tower Hamlets have an opportunity to come together to challenge hatred and prejudice through remembering the millions of people murdered in the Holocaust, under Nazi Persecution and the genocides that followed in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia, and Darfur.
Holocaust Memorial Day events will include an inter-generational conversation, a schools programme, film screenings, and walks.
Maium Talukdar, Deputy Mayor of Tower Hamlets, said:
“Tower Hamlets has always been a place where people have united against intolerance and division and taken a stand for liberty. As we mark Holocaust Memorial Day this year, let us all think about what we can do to confront hatred and reinforce freedoms in our
communities and around the world.”
Sufia Alam, Head of Programmes and Maryam Centre, London Muslim Centre, and Chair of Tower Hamlets Interfaith Forum said:
"As we join hands in solemn remembrance on Holocaust Memorial Day, let us reaffirm our unwavering stance against all forms of hatred and genocide. The tragedies of the Holocaust, and the numerous genocides that have occurred around the world remind us of the devastating consequences of intolerance and discrimination.
As the Tower Hamlets Interfaith Forum, we are committed to fostering a society that upholds the dignity and freedom of every individual, regardless of their faith or background. Our collective memory of these dark chapters in history strengthens our resolve to actively oppose injustice and to nurture a society rooted in understanding, compassion, and peace."
Memorial events are listed on the council website. Booking to attend is essential.
Posted on Tuesday 16th January 2024