Residents across Rotherham are invited to come together to remember those who lost their lives in the Holocaust and in other genocides around the world at this year’s Holocaust Memorial Day event.
The commemoration will take place at Clifton Park Bandstand on Tuesday 27 January 2026 at 12pm.
The theme, ‘Bridging Generations’, highlights the shared responsibility we all hold in preserving the memories and lessons passed down by survivors and their families. This is especially poignant following the recent death of Holocaust survivor and educator, Eva Schloss (96), the stepsister of Anne Frank, whose lifelong work to preserve memory and challenge prejudice has inspired generations.
As the Holocaust and other genocides become more distant in time, there is a growing risk that the realities of these events may fade or be questioned. The theme encourages us to listen, learn, and continue telling these stories, ensuring they remain part of our collective understanding and shape the society we build for the future.
Councillor Chris Read, Leader of Rotherham Council, said: “Holocaust Memorial Day gives us a moment to stop and reflect each year on the darkest hour of European history, and the lessons each generation must take from that. As each year passes, it becomes even more important that we keep these memories alive and ensure that the lessons are not lost.
“The theme ‘Bridging Generations’ is a reminder that this responsibility sits with all of us. By listening to holocaust survivors and understanding their experiences, we help challenge prejudice and division in our own communities today. In doing so, we play our part in building a more understanding and hopeful future for everyone.”
The event will include speeches from the Leader of Rotherham Council, the Chief Executive, the Mayor of Rotherham, and local faith leaders, as well as a contribution from a family member of a Holocaust survivor. Musical performances by local school pupils will also form part of the commemoration.
