Aberdeen marks Holocaust Memorial Day

27 January 2020

A free event to mark Holocaust Memorial Day was held in Aberdeen Art Gallery, today (Monday 27 January).

Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) 2020 marked 75 years since the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau and the 25th anniversary of the Genocide in Bosnia.

The theme of HMD 2020 was Stand Together. It explored how genocidal regimes throughout history have fractured societies by marginalising certain groups, and how these tactics can be challenged by individuals standing together with their neighbours and speaking out against oppression.

The Lord Provost of Aberdeen Barney Crockett welcomed attendees to the hour-long event, which was open to all, and included music by Powidok, a presentation by pupils from Aberdeen Grammar School and a short talk from a representative from the Travelling community.

At 12.30pm attendees were invited to ‘Stand Together’ to observe a minute’s silence to remember past and present victims of genocide. They were also invited to write their reflections and thoughts in a special guest book.

The Lord Provost of Aberdeen Barney Crockett said: “Sadly intolerance and inequality still continue to affect people across the world in a very serious way today.

“Holocaust Memorial Day is a time for everyone to pause to remember the millions of people affected by the Nazi persecution and subsequent genocides.

“It is extremely important that we continue to remember the victims of these atrocities and learn from the past to help build a better future for all.”

Holocaust Memorial Day in Aberdeen was organised by Grampian Regional Equality Council, Aberdeen Synagogue, Four Pillars, Polish Association Aberdeen, Unite, the University of Aberdeen, community members and supported by Aberdeen City Council.

Photographs from the event:

The Lord Provost welcomes guests to the Holocaust Memorial Day event held in Aberdeen Art Gallery.

Mateusz Pielka, University of Kazimierz Wielki in Bydgoszcz, Poland, explained why people should remember the past in order to help create a better future.

Tommy Campbell, member of Aberdeen Holocaust Memorial Day committee and pupils from Aberdeen Grammar School addressed the guests and spoke about the importance of remembering the Holocaust and standing together against all genocides.

Pianist Kacper Walczak, played traditional Polish music, befitting for the occasion.

Attendees of the Holocaust Memorial Day event gathered to observe a minute’s silence.

The Lord Provost signed the Holocaust Memorial Day book.