Pupils gather to mark Holocaust Memorial Day
Local pupils helped to remember those who were involved in all aspects of the Holocaust and subsequent genocides as part of an event to mark Holocaust Memorial Day.
Pupils from St Joseph’s, Stewarton, Loudoun and Grange Academies, along with representatives from voluntary group 4ward 2gether, lit candles and held a minute’s silence at East Ayrshire Council HQ in memory of all those who lost their lives during the Holocaust, Nazi persecution and in genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Darfur and Bosnia. Councillors Clare Maitland, Barry Douglas, Neill Watts and John McGhee also read out excerpts of the life stories of people who were involved in the Holocaust and genocides.
This year’s event was especially poignant as it was the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration camp complex, and the 30th anniversary of the genocide in Bosnia.
The theme for 2025 was ‘For A Better Future’ and pupils spoke about the many things we can do meet this aim including speaking up against Holocaust and genocide denial and distortion; challenging prejudice; and encouraging others to learn about the Holocaust and more recent genocides.
Councillor Neal Ingram, Cabinet Member for Human Resources, Equalities and Inclusion, said: “My thanks go to all of the pupils who not only delivered some very powerful presentations, but also took the time to respectfully remember all those who have lost their lives through the holocaust or genocides.
“We hope that this day of remembrance provided an opportunity for people to come together, learn from the past, and take actions to make a better future for everyone.”
ends