Thursday 27-01-2022 - 09:39

 

Holocaust Memorial Day

National Holocaust Memorial Day is observed on the 27 January in the UK and marks the day that the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp was liberated in 1945. Every year the nation commemorates Holocaust Memorial Day as a day of reflection and acknowledgment for those who have been killed or have faced genocides that have taken place around the world - from the Nazi persecution of Jewish people in World War Two, to the atrocities committed in Rwanda, Bosnia, Darfur, and Cambodia.

 

So how can you mark the day?

This period is not one that should ever be forgotten; it’s something that should be remembered, taught, and learned about. So how can you learn more?

You can do your own research to educate yourself - I recommend watching documentaries, listening to podcasts, or reading books and memoirs to get a deep understand of the individual experience of the Holocaust victims. Born Jewish: A Childhood in Occupied Europe by Marcel Liebman or The Auschwitz Report by Primo Levi and Leonardo De Benedetti are great books to gain an insight into the Holocaust.

• The Holocaust Memorial Day Trust also have a wealth of information for you to read up on, as well as hosting both virtual and in-person events for you to attend to gain even further knowledge.
• Learn from the experience of others - why is this day still so relevant and how does it affect the people around you? It’s important that we try to learn from people’s experiences as there are individuals still alive today who lived through these cruel events.

 

Image Source: Holocaust Memorial Day Trust

 

How can you get support?

This day marks a significant day in history and can take a massive toll on people. If you or someone you know is affected by these events you can refer them to any of the following options:

• The Advice Centre at The Union offers signposting to various mental health charities and services.
• The Manchester Metropolitan’s pastoral care or the Chaplain Service is open to all students. The Chaplaincy service talks to students about matters relating to faith, and you don’t have to be religious to get advice. Mohammed Ullah is here to support all students with all faiths.
• You can also access St. Peter’s House. Based on Oxford Road, they have Chaplains of various faiths including Manchester based Rabbis – with further information on their website.

Let’s use this day to remember the atrocities that were committed during this time, let's learn from the mistakes of the past and speak out for those whose voices and experiences are still silenced today.