Girton College observes Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) on Thursday 27 January, in memory of the 6 million Jews brutally murdered in the Holocaust, and of the countless other people persecuted since, in the Bosnian, Cambodian, Darfur, Rwandan and other Genocides. In line with this year’s HMD theme of ‘One Day’, we reflect on the experience of all those genocide victims whose lives dramatically changed in One Day because of a decision, event or encounter, and we recognise that for those enduring callous brutality, terrified of every moment, with no end in sight, One Day could feel infinite.
We stand with the statement of commitment written by the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust:
- We recognise that the Holocaust shook the foundations of modern civilisation. Its unprecedented character and horror will always hold universal meaning.
- We believe the Holocaust must have a permanent place in our nation’s and community’s collective memory. We honour the survivors still with us, and reaffirm our shared goals of mutual understanding and justice.
- We must make sure that future generations understand the causes of the Holocaust and reflect upon its consequences. We vow to remember the victims of Nazi persecution and of all genocides.
- We value the sacrifices of those who have risked their lives to protect or rescue victims, as a touchstone of the human capacity for good in the face of evil.
- We recognise that humanity is still scarred by the belief that race, religion, disability or sexuality make some people’s lives worth less than others’. Genocide, anti-Semitism, racism, xenophobia and discrimination still continue. We have a shared responsibility to fight these evils.
- We pledge to strengthen our efforts to promote education and research about the Holocaust and other genocides. We will do our utmost to make sure that the lessons of such events are fully learnt.
- We will continue to encourage Holocaust remembrance by organising an activity to commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day. We condemn the evils of prejudice, discrimination and racism. We value a free, respectful, and democratic society.
This statement is published on behalf of the community of scholars at Girton. The JCR is also leading a Holocaust Memorial Day remembrance event and is raising awareness through an installation (which those in College can visit in Cloister corridors). We invite you to join us in rejecting anti-Semitism, commemorating Holocaust Memorial Day 2022, and hoping with others that there may be One Day in the future with no genocide.