Holocaust Memorial Day

Above: Auschwitz-Birkenau death camp where the gas chambers were located.

This week, David Rutley MP signed the Holocaust Educational Trust’s Book of Commitment in Parliament, ahead of Holocaust Memorial Day, which will take place on 27th January 2019.

Note: Cheshire East Council will hold a service of remembrance to commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day in Macclesfield tomorrow – Friday, 25th January. See: http://www.ilovemacc.com/2019/01/24/holocaust-remembrance-service/

In signing the Book of Commitment, David pledged his commitment to Holocaust Memorial Day and to honouring those who were murdered during the Holocaust. The Day is also a vital opportunity to pay tribute to the continued service of the extraordinary Holocaust survivors, who work tirelessly to educate young people today about the despicable crimes of the Holocaust, and the need for vigilance to prevent future atrocities from taking place.

Holocaust Memorial Day is marked annually on 27th January, the anniversary of the liberation of the former Nazi concentration and death camp Auschwitz-Birkenau. In the lead up to and on Holocaust Memorial Day, thousands of commemorative events will be arranged by schools, faith groups and community organisations across the country, remembering all the victims of the Holocaust and subsequent genocides. The theme for this year’s commemorations is ‘Torn from Home’.

Karen Pollock MBE, Chief Executive of the Holocaust Educational Trust, said, “The Holocaust did not start in the gas chambers but with hate filled words. Our mission is to educate young people from every background about the Holocaust and its contemporary relevance. We are very grateful to David for signing the Book of Commitment, signalling a continued commitment to remembering the victims of the Holocaust as well as challenging antisemitism, prejudice and bigotry in all its forms.”

After signing the Book of Commitment, David said, “Holocaust Memorial Day is an important opportunity for people living in and around Macclesfield, and across the country, to reflect on the tragic events of the Holocaust. It remains as important as ever that we take the time to remember the victims and also pay tribute to the survivors. I would encourage local residents to show their support for such an important day.”