Newham marks 70th anniversary of liberation of Auschwitz

Newham Council will be marking the 70th anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp on January 27 next year…and want help from local people.

A Holocaust Memorial Day Event event will take place at the Old Town Hall, Stratford, and as part of the event the council would like residents to share their experiences.The council is looking for residents who were either survivors, liberators or one of their descendents to share their stories with the community.This year’s theme, set by the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust, is Keeping the Memory Alive. As well as marking the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, the day also encompasses the genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur.Holocaust survivor Rudi Oppenheimer will be the guest of honour at the event where he will share his memories. There will also be a candle lighting service of reflection, musical performances and readings by Newham school children.Mayor of Newham Sir Robin Wales said: “This important annual event serves as a reminder to all of us of the vulnerability of humanity and the dangers of prejudice. This year’s theme is Keeping the Memory Alive, which is especially poignant as it is the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz and the 20th anniversary of the genocide in Srebrenica, Bosnia.“We want to educate the new generations about the mistakes of the past, so they will not be repeated in the future. If you have been affected by these horrific events and are prepared to share your story please do get in touch.”

To share your experiences with the borough, please contact events assistant Alex Reynolds-Cocroft on (020) 3373 1774 or email Alex.Reynolds-Cocroft@newham.gov.uk.