Calling all local poets ahead of Holocaust Memorial Day

Holocaust Memorial Day takes place internationally every year on 27 January, the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi death camp. It gives us the space to remember the six million Jews murdered during the Holocaust, the millions of other people killed by the Nazi persecution of other groups, and in the genocides which followed in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia, and Darfur.

Ahead of this year’s memorial, we’re inviting local people to submit poems of a maximum of 200 words, inspired by this year’s theme – Fragility of Freedom – by 14 January.

The writer of the winning poem will receive a £10 gift voucher for Bow Books in Royston and be invited to read their poem, or nominate someone to read it on their behalf, at our event on Saturday 27 January.

Cllr Alistair Willoughby, Executive Member for Community & Partnerships, said: “Holocaust Memorial Day provides an opportunity to remember everyone affected by the Holocaust and other terrible acts of genocide, and learn from the past – and as we’re all too aware, sadly learn from the present as well.”

Cllr Dominic Griffiths, deputy Executive Member for Community & Partnerships, added: “Freedom is fragile and it cannot be taken for granted. Everyone should have the freedom of expression, to be who they are, love who they want, and practise the faith they choose.”

Providing more information on this year’s theme, the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust (HMDT), a charity established and funded by the UK Government to promote and support Holocaust Memorial Day in the UK, said: “Freedom means different things to different people. What is clear is that in every genocide that has taken place, those who are targeted for persecution have had their freedom restricted and removed, before many of them are murdered. This is often a subtle, slow process.”

If you would like to submit a poem, please email us by 14 January: community@north-herts.gov.uk