Holocaust Memorial
We are writing to you to let you know about arrangements in Swindon for this year’s Holocaust Memorial Day on Saturday 27 January 2018.
The theme for this year is “The Power of Words – for good or evil”
We would like to invite you to join us, if you would like to and can spare the time. First, at 12.00 noon on Saturday 27 January there will be a short (20 mins) wreath laying ceremony, with the Mayor in attendance, by the Cenotaph, Regents Circus. Everyone is welcome!
Next, at 12.30 pm, there will be a gathering for readings, recollections, and reflection at the Friends Meeting House, Eastcott Hill, Swindon. For this latter event, we expect to be together for approx 1 hour. Light lunchtime refreshments, including sandwiches and hot drinks, will be provided by Friends, whom we thank.
Background
Holocaust Memorial Day was first marked in the UK in January 2001, and is now established as an annual day of remembrance on 27 January each year. Local authorities, faith and community groups, and individuals were asked to take a lead in developing local memorial events and appropriate activities. We do so in Swindon.
The aim of this day is to mark not only the Holocaust but also numerous other human rights tragedies around the world, including persecution and wars, past and present. Its aim is also to help raise awareness in young people. This day also provides an opportunity for all of us to renew our commitment to building a strong and caring community in Swindon, which embraces people of all faiths, beliefs, backgrounds, languages, and nations. Further information, and a more national perspective, about Holocaust Memorial Day, can be found on the internet, at www.hmd.org.uk.