Today, 27th January, is Holocaust Memorial Day. This is an opportunity to remember the millions of people people murdered in the Holocaust as a result of Nazi atrocities. During yesterday’s Senior School assembly, Freddie MacF and Rory B (SVI) spoke about why Holocaust Memorial Day continues to be relevant in the present day. Here is a transcript of what they said.

In the lead up to Holocaust Memorial Day, we come together to remember.

We remember all those killed during the Holocaust. 6 million Jews. Half a million Romanis. 300,000 disabled people. Tens of thousands of political prisoners. 3 million Soviet prisoners. Thousands of gay individuals. Each number we hear represents a life cut short by the bigotry and silence of those unable, or unwilling, to stand up to oppression

Holocaust Memorial Day is not only about the past. It is a message of what unchecked power can cause for the individuals who stand against it. The Holocaust did not begin with the creation of concentration camps and murder. It began with influence. The convincing of millions to abandon their own beliefs and take part in the Nazi Regimes twisted recreation of their own society. Book burnings, education, and propaganda, all just ways for bystanders to get swept up in the pompous nature of the Party.

Ordinary people were taught to look away. Laws were passed that made discrimination legal. Children were convinced to report their parents for any insolence against the party. Those who did not care were those who were unaffected by the Nazi Doctrine.

As survivors have told their stories, they have given us a responsibility. A responsibility to remember that the Holocaust was not inevitable, and could have easily been avoided given the willingness of ordinary people to fight against the corruption and brutality they witnessed

Holocaust Memorial Day also asks us to reflect on the world. mass persecution and bigotry did not end in 1945 and is in some ways more prevalent today than at any time before. sometimes loud, sometimes quiet, but always persistent. The Holocaust Memorial Day Trust, in charge of Holocaust Memorial Day, encourages remembrance of all past genocides, as well as prevention of all possible ones.

The question set before us by this day is simple: What will we do?

Will we challenge prejudice when we hear it?
Will we stand with those who are targeted?
Will we choose empathy over indifference?

Or will we stay silent, ignorant so long as it doesn’t affect us individually?

Peace is not a benefit of society; it is a responsibility. learning where hatred can lead and choosing a different path, both vital skills.  

There is a Hebrew Talmud, saying: “Whoever saves one life, saves the entire world.” In the same vein, one who ignores one injustice, condones them all. Speak up. Educate ourselves. Listening to others’ experiences. Choose kindness when it would be easier to turn away.

Let us remember – and let that remembrance guide our actions.