Marking the 20th year of Holocaust Memorial Day in Milton Keynes, powerful and moving testimonies from the city’s students will once again form the focal point of local commemorations.
The event will take place in the Milton Keynes Council Chamber tomorrow (January 30).
Denbigh School students will speak about their visit to Auschwitz, and will be followed by a selection of readings by school pupils.
Emily Jones and Gemini Aldridge from Sir Herbert Leon Academy share a presentation on seeing Auschwitz and linking to theme of refugees and the importance of learning from the past.
Erica Stevens and Carly Smith, ex Students of the Sir Herbert Leon Academy, will also speak about impact of visiting Auschwitz, becoming the first National HET award winners and marking the anniversary of the first MK Holocaust Memorial.
Milton Keynes Mayor Martin Petchey will launch proceedings, whilst MKC Chief Executive Michael Bracey will read the following Holocaust Statement:
We recognise that the Holocaust shook the foundations of modern civilisation. Its unprecedented character and horror will always hold universal meaning
We believe the Holocaust must have a permanent place in our nation’s collective memory. We honour the survivors still with us, and reaffirm our shared goals of mutual understanding and justice
We must make sure that future generations understand the causes of the Holocaust and reflect upon its consequences. We vow to remember the victims of Nazi persecution and of all genocides
We value the sacrifices of those who have risked their lives to protect or rescue victims, as a touchstone of the human capacity for good in the face of evil
We recognise that humanity is still scarred by the belief that race, religion, disability or sexuality make some people’s lives worth less than others’. Genocide, anti-semitism, racism, xenophobia and discrimination still continue. We have a shared responsibility to fight these evils
We pledge to strengthen our efforts to promote education and research about the Holocaust and other genocides. We will do our utmost to make sure that the lessons of such events are fully learned
We will continue to encourage Holocaust remembrance by holding an annual UK Holocaust Memorial Day. We condemn the evils of prejudice, discrimination and racism. We value a free, respectful, and democratic society
Paul Salver, Regional Board for Remembering Srebrenica and Holocaust Educational Trust Educator, will also present a talk about the massacre.
Other highlights of the commemorative event will include ‘Eileh Ezkera’, ‘En Kelohenu’ and two readings – performed by the Milton Keynes & District Reform Synagogue Choir.
Never miss leisure news in Milton Keynes - Follow us on www.twitter.com/thisistotalmk
And on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thisistotalmk
