Coventry will be marking Holocaust Memorial Day later this month with a free event at The Belgrade Theatre. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi death camp and the liberation of Bergen-Belsen.
The event, held on Monday, January 27, from 1pm to 3pm, will remember the millions who were murdered during the Holocaust under Nazi persecution. The event will include speakers sharing their stories, music, and performances.
This year’s theme for Holocaust Memorial Day is ‘For a Better Future’. The theme aims to highlight the need to learn and reflect on the Holocaust to create a better future for the next generations, free from prejudice or persecution.
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This year’s main speaker is Lesley Urbach from the Holocaust education charity Generation 2 Generation. He will tell the story of his mother and aunt, who escaped to the UK and Argentina in 1938 and 1939. The talk will focus on what happened to their parents left behind in Germany, who were murdered at Auschwitz on February 19, 1943.
Councillor Abdul Salam Khan, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Policing and Equalities at Coventry City Council, will also speak at the event. He said: “Holocaust Memorial Day, along with the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, serves as a crucial moment for reflection.
“Coventry takes immense pride in welcoming people of all backgrounds, races, and religions to our city, many of whom are seeking refuge from persecution in their home countries. I am deeply proud of the support we provide as a city, ensuring that those who settle in Coventry can truly make it their home.”
Students from Cardinal Newman Catholic School will also share their personal experiences of fleeing conflict, highlighting the importance of learning and reflecting on the Holocaust, while the warwick>University of Warwick students from the Jewish Society will be sharing why educating yourself on the Holocaust is important.
Lord Mayor of Coventry City Council, Councillor Mal Mutton, added: “Coventry’s recognition as a City of Peace and Reconciliation highlights the city’s deep history and commitment to welcoming people from all corners of the world to make their home here. I firmly believe that those who call Coventry home play a vital role in building a future of peace, harmony, and friendship within the city for generations to come.”
For more information on Holocaust Memorial Day, click here. To book a place at this year’s event, visit the Coventry City Council website.
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