Holocaust Memorial Day

We will observe Holocaust Memorial Day on Monday, 27 January 2025. Marking 80 years since the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration camp, and 30 years since the genocide in Bosnia.

This year’s theme, "For a Better Future," encourages us to reflect on the past and take action to create a fairer, more inclusive world. It highlights the importance of learning from history to build a brighter future, especially in the face of rising antisemitism and other hate crimes.

The ceremony will be recorded and shared via our Facebook and You Tube channel.

Residents are invited to join the Light the Darkness National Moment at 8pm where people can light candles and place them safely in their windows to stand against prejudice and hatred today.

The Great Hall

The event will be at the Great Hall in the Guildhall, Northampton, starting at 1pm. There will be different reflections, performances, and tributes.

These include:

• welcome speeches by WNC’s Chairman, Cllr Jo Gilford; Deputy Lieutenant, Peter Bason MBE BDS; and WNC’s Leader, Cllr Adam Brown
• contributions from Northamptonshire Police and Fire Service representatives, Father Oliver Coss (Chair of Northampton Inter Faith Forum), and Cllr Sam Rumens with Lori Rumens Gale
• performances and presentations from local school groups, WNC’s Youth Forum, and community leaders
• a 2 minute silence and the symbolic blowing of the Shofar by Bruce Greenberg, followed by a flower-laying and candle-lighting ceremony in the Guildhall courtyard
• memorial prayers led by Michael Necus, President of the Jewish Community, offering a moment of solemn reflection

Last updated 16 December 2024