People invited to mark Holocaust Memorial Day

People in Staffordshire are being invited to mark Holocaust Memorial Day at a series of national and local events and services.

Taking place on Friday 27 January, the day will remember those who lost their lives during the Nazi persecution and other genocides throughout history.

At 4pm on the day, people across the UK will take part in a national moment by lighting candles and safely putting them in their windows. Using the hashtags #HolocaustMemorialDay and #LightTheDarkness, people will be able to share their moments with others and join in the commemorations.

A series of events in Staffordshire will also take place to mark the day, including:

• The National Memorial Arboretum will host a traditional service and candle lighting, which will take place in the Millennium Chapel at 11am on 27 January.

• The V&A Wedgwood Collection at the World of Wedgwood in Barlaston are hosting an event on 27 January from 5:45pm, to share stories of Wedgwood people who helped those fleeing Nazi persecution between 1933 and 1945.

• Recalling the Argles family – A family who supported 30 Jewish children after Kristallnacht in 1938 . One of the children , now 87, Mr Kaufmann will be participating in a special ceremony in Leek at the Salvation Army Centre on 27 January at 4pm.

Alan White, Leader of Staffordshire County Council said: “It’s important that we continue to mark this day to remember the victims of Holocausts and those lives affected by persecution and genocide.

“By bringing communities together and celebrating difference and diversity we can help build a better future for everyone. I would encourage people to try and find some time to mark the day, either by putting a light in their window on the day or by attending one of the events taking place across the county.”

Further details about the day and events and activities taking place can be found at: https://www.hmd.org.uk/take-part-in-holocaust-memorial-day/activities/