Nottingham’s Council House will host a ceremony of commemoration this weekend for the victims of the Holocaust.
The memorial service, organised by Nottingham City Council, One Nottingham and the city’s Inter-Faith Council, will mark National Holocaust Memorial Day on Sunday (27 January). The theme this year is ‘Torn From Home’.
Holocaust Memorial Day is on the same date each year and allows people from all backgrounds to come together, remember the past and reflect on racism and intolerance in society today.
People from across the city and from all faiths have been invited to the service at the Council House, which will open with a welcome by the Lord Mayor of Nottingham, Councillor Liaqat Ali. The event is free and takes place from 2.30pm until 4pm.
The programme will include guest speakers, poetry, prayers and music from the Robin Hood Youth Orchestra, while the Lord Mayor will light a candle on behalf of the City of Nottingham.
National Holocaust Memorial Day was observed for the first time in January 2001 following widespread support for such a commemoration. Among the aims of the event are to provide a mark of respect for the victims of Nazi persecution, to reflect on recent atrocities that raise similar issues and to promote a democratic and tolerant society.
Councillor Ali said: “This event is an opportunity for our local community to come together to remember victims of the Holocaust and those whose lives have been affected by discrimination. This event helps us to think about the impact and how it can still damage society, plus consider what we can do to protect against exclusion.
“The aim of National Holocaust Day is to remember all victims of the Holocaust and Nazi persecution, to reflect on more recent atrocities and to remind ourselves about the dangers of anti-Semitism, racism and all forms of discrimination.”
All members of the local community are invited to come along. Anyone wishing to attend the event will need to register by contacting Sally Radford on 876 5654 or sally.radford@nottinghamcity.gov.uk by Friday 25 January.