Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) takes place on 27^th January each year, and is the day for everyone to remember the millions of people murdered in the Holocaust, through Nazi Persecution, and in subsequent genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur. On HMD we honour the survivors of these atrocities, challenge ourselves to work to end discrimination and prejudice, and pledge to help create a safer, better future.

The theme for HMD 2018 is ‘The Power of Words’ It recognises that spoken and written words from individuals, corporations, community organisations or the state, can have a huge impact, whether good or bad. The theme for this year explores how language has been used in the past, and how it is used in the present day. Guidance on our 2018 theme is available on the HMDT website. Click on http://hmd.org.uk/resources/theme-papers/hmd-2018-power-words

Many different groups and organisations are involved annually in HMD activity. They range from small community bodies through to large workplaces and major employers. Some combine their involvement with others in their local areas. Some are keen to do their own thing. Parish Councils, being at the hub of their community, are a really important mechanism for bringing people together in observation.

Accordingly, I’m e-mailing to ask whether you would consider holding an event or activity on or around 27^th January 2018 to mark HMD? If you are interested in doing something, please remember that it doesn’t have to be a large, long or complex event. Sometimes the simplest observation proves to be the most poignant and has the most impact. Whatever it is you decide to do, has to be right for you.

Our website (www.hmd.org.uk) has lots of information about HMD and you can access FREE resources that we produce to help people commemorate. You may find the section entitled ‘Organise an Activity’ of particular initial use. Click on http://hmd.org.uk/page/organise-activity-0