Kingston marks Holocaust Memorial Day 2024
Communities from across the borough gathered in Kingston University’s Townhouse to reflect and remember the experiences of those affected by the Holocaust and to mark Holocaust Memorial Day.
Last Sunday (28 January 2024) communities from many different faiths, cultures and backgrounds came together to pay tribute to the victims of the Holocaust and subsequent genocides around the world in a special community event. Hosted by Kingston Faith and Belief Forum the programme focused on the theme ‘fragility of freedom’, which provided an opportunity to learn lessons of the past and challenge ourselves to work for a safer and fairer future.
Guest speaker Rahima Mahmut, a Uyghur artist and activist, spoke about the ongoing atrocities faced by the Uyghur population in China who are fighting for their cultural and human rights. The service also saw a range of emotive performances that paid tribute to historic and current experiences of loss and trauma - from Rahima and her musicians, Kingston Liberal Synagogue Choir and the Children’s Cheder Choir.
In a solemn moment of dedication, every guest was invited to light a candle and observe a minute silence. To conclude the event, the Dialogue Society provided each guest with an ancient Turkish dessert known as ‘Noah’s Pudding’, which symbolises interfaith unity.
The Mayor of the Royal Borough of Kingston, Councillor Diane White, Deputy Mayor Councillor Richard Thorpe and Ed Davey MP attended the event.
Mayor of the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, Councillor Diane White said:
Holocaust Memorial Day casts a light on injustices that still continue to happen everyday. As a nation, and a local authority we must challenge this position and support those affected across the world.