Coventry set to mark Holocaust Memorial Day on the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau

Held on 27 January each year, this year will mark 80thanniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi death camp and the liberation of Bergen-Belsen, plus the 30thanniversary of genocide in Srebrenica, Bosnia.

The event is ticketed and free to attend and is due to run from 1pm - 3pm on Monday 27 January and will see speakers share their stories, as well as music and performances. The event will remember the millions of people murdered during the Holocaust under Nazi persecution.

A different theme is chosen each year by the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust, and this year's event will focus on the theme of 'For a Better Future'. The theme aims to highlight the need to reflect and learn from the Holocaust to create a better future for future generations free from prejudice or persecution.

The main speaker for this year's event is Lesley Urbach, from Generation 2 Generation, a Holocaust education charity. Lesley Urbach will recall the story of her mother Eva Urbach and aunt Ulli Adler, who escaped to Britain and Argentina in 1938 and 1939. The talk focuses on what happened to their parents left behind in Germany, who were murdered at Auschwitz on 19 February 1943.

Lesley Urback said: "I am honoured to be telling my mother's family story at Coventry's Holocaust Memorial Day event on behalf of the Holocaust Education charity, Generation 2 Generation.

"We hope that by telling the stories of individuals who suffered in the Holocaust we can reinforce our message of understanding and empathy towards others and focus on our common humanity."

Councillor Abdul Salam Khan, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Policing and Equalities at Coventry City Council, will also be speaking at the event.

He added: "Holocaust Memorial Day, along with the 80thanniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau serves as a crucial moment for reflection.

"Coventry takes immense pride in welcoming people of all backgrounds, races and religions to our city, many of whom are seeking refuge from persecution in their home countries.

"I am deeply proud of the support we provide as a city, ensuring that those who settle in Coventry can truly make it their home."

Students from Cardinal Newman Catholic School will also share their personal experiences of fleeing conflict, highlighting the importance of learning about and reflecting on the Holocaust.

Time Will Tell Theatre will stage a powerful reenactment of first-hand accounts from the liberation of Bergen-Belsen, marking its 80thanniversary.

Also performing is Coventry Music's brass quintet, whilst University of Warwick students from the Jewish Society will be sharing why Holocaust education is important.

Councillor Mal Mutton, Lord Mayor of Coventry City Council stated:

"Coventry's recognition as a City of Peace and Reconciliation highlights the city's deep history and commitment to welcoming people from all corners of the world to make their home here.

"I firmly believe that those who call Coventry home play a vital role in building a future of peace, harmony, and friendship within the city for generations to come."

For more information on Holocaust Memorial Day, please visit www.hmd.org.uk. To book a free place at this year's event in Coventry, please visit www.coventry.gov.uk/hmd

Published: Tuesday, 14th January 2025