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Why mark HMD?

Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) takes place on 27 January each year and is a time to remember the millions of people murdered during the Holocaust, under Nazi Persecution and in the genocides which followed 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’re fortunate here in the UK; 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 HMD is an opportunity to start this process.

The aims of HMD are laid out in the statement of commitment. HMD activity organisers bring together the diverse strands of their communities to commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day in their neighbourhoods. This is a real demonstration of how the lessons of the past can inform our lives today and ensure that everyone works together to create a safer, better future.

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. From schools to libraries, workplaces to local authorities, 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.

Our film showcases five Holocaust Memorial Day activities in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, and the significant impact they had on those who took part.

Organise an HMD activity

Organise an HMD activity

Holocaust Memorial Day is for everyone and anyone can organise an HMD activity. We provide a lots of free resources, historical information and ideas of how to get involved.

Get involved
Activity map

Activity map

Each year tens of thousands of activities take place across the UK to mark Holocaust Memorial Day. Explore our interactive map to find activities happening near you.

Find activities