MONDAY January 27 is Holocaust Memorial Day – a solemn opportunity for remembrance and a chance for us to reflect on the importance of what we say and the impact our words can have.
This year’s theme, ‘For a Better Future’, challenges us to confront the lessons of history and strive for a world free from hatred and division.
Eighty years have passed since the liberation of Auschwitz – a site that remains a stark symbol of the unimaginable cruelty and suffering inflicted during the Holocaust.
The atrocities committed at Auschwitz and other concentration camps across Europe are a stain on humanity’s conscience.
This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the Bosnian genocide – a sobering reminder that hatred and violence can resurface when prejudice and intolerance go unchecked.
The passage of time only deepens our responsibility to ensure the lessons of history are preserved and shared with future generations.
We must teach the truth of what happened, confront denial and distortion, and honour the memory of those who lost their lives.
I will never forget my visit to Auschwitz, where I was accompanied by 250 school pupils from our county.
Walking through those grounds left an indelible impression and reinforced the vital importance of education, empathy, and vigilance in fighting intolerance and injustice. ‘Never Again’ is not just a pledge; it is a call to action. For a better future, we must build bridges between communities. We must always choose kindness over cruelty and understanding over prejudice.
This commitment begins in our daily lives – in the words we speak, the actions we take, and the courage we show in standing firm against antisemitism, racism, and bigotry in all its forms.
Locally, there will be commemorations at Barnsley Town Hall, featuring a number of speakers, including a survivor of the Srebrenica massacre and faith leaders from across our community. The service starts at 6pm, and all are welcome to attend.
On Holocaust Memorial Day, we remember those whose lives were stolen by the evils of the Holocaust and honour their memory by pledging to confront hatred wherever it appears. Together, we must do everything in our power to create a world where such horrors can never happen again.
Never again.
