Reading’s evening of reflection to mark Holocaust Memorial Day 2024

An evening of remembrance and reflection to commemorate victims of the Holocaust will be held in the Council Chamber on Wednesday 24 January 2024 from 6:30pm.

Reading’s annual, free Civic commemoration will follow the global Holocaust Memorial Day theme for 2024, ‘Fragility of Freedom’, reflecting on how freedom is fragile and vulnerable to abuse. The theme will inspire open discussions about how we as a community can strengthen the freedoms of those around the world and remind us to never take our own freedoms for granted.

The free event will feature various live elements including speakers, prayers, and choral performances by the Maidenhead Synagogue Choir.

Keynote speakers, Simon Grinberg and Helen Compton, will share the story of their mother’s survival, as a child in a Nazi concentration camp. Brendan Cox, co-founder of the /together coalition will reflect on the importance of bringing people together and bridging divides, to help build a kinder, closer, and more connected society.

Candles for peace will be lit by The Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire, Mr Andrew Try, The Bishop of Reading, The Rt Revd Olivia Graham, and keynote speakers.

Members of the public are welcome to attend, and the evening's proceedings will be streamed live on the Council’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@ReadingCouncilNews.