Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) takes place today every year and is a time to remember the millions of people murdered during the Holocaust, under Nazi Persecution and also to remember the more recent genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur.

Holocaust Memorial Day is a time when we seek to learn the lessons of the past and recognise that genocide does not just take place on its own – it’s a steady process which can begin if discrimination, racism and hatred are not checked and prevented. We are fortunate here in the UK; that we are not at immediate risk of genocide. However, discrimination has not ended, nor has the use of the language of hatred or exclusion. There is still much to do to create a safer future and today is an opportunity to start this process.

The aims of HMD are laid out in the statement of commitment.  Each year thousands of activities take place for HMD, bringing people from all backgrounds together to learn lessons from the past in creative, reflective and inspiring ways. HMD activities offer a real opportunity to honour the experiences of people affected by the Holocaust and genocide, and challenge ourselves to work for a safer, better future (Holocaust Memorial Trust).

UWS in partnership with the Holocaust Education Trust are supporting schools as part of their Vision Schools Scotland initiative to develop Holocaust education and equip teachers with the knowledge and expertise to deliver this subject.

Find out more about our UWS Holocaust education partnership initiative.