Coventry Commemorates 80 Years Since Auschwitz-Birkenau’s Liberation: A Thoughtful Holocaust Memorial Day Celebration

Taking place on 27 January annually, this year signifies the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi extermination camp, and the liberation of Bergen-Belsen, as well as the 30th anniversary of the genocide in Srebrenica, Bosnia.

The gathering requires tickets but is free of charge to attend and will occur from 1pm – 3pm on Monday, 27 January, featuring speakers who will share their experiences, along with musical performances. This event will honor the millions who perished during the Holocaust under Nazi oppression.

Each year, the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust selects a specific theme; this year’s focus will be on ‘For a Better Future’. The theme seeks to underscore the importance of reflecting on and learning from the Holocaust to forge a brighter future untainted by prejudice or persecution.

Lesley Urbach, from Generation 2 Generation, a Holocaust education charity, is the principal speaker for this year’s gathering. Lesley Urbach will recount the experiences of her mother, Eva Urbach, and her aunt, Ulli Adler, who fled to Britain and Argentina in 1938 and 1939. The discussion will center on the fates of their parents, who remained in Germany and were killed at Auschwitz on 19 February 1943.

Lesley Urback stated: “It is a privilege to share my mother’s family story at Coventry’s Holocaust Memorial Day gathering on behalf of the Holocaust Education charity, Generation 2 Generation.”

“Our goal is that by narrating the tales of individuals who suffered during the Holocaust, we can strengthen our message of understanding and compassion towards others and concentrate on our shared humanity.”

Councillor Abdul Salam Khan, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Policing and Equalities at Coventry City Council, will also address the audience at the gathering.

He remarked: “Holocaust Memorial Day, coupled with the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, stands as a pivotal moment for contemplation.”

“Coventry takes great pride in welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, races, and faiths to our city, many of whom are escaping persecution in their homeland.”

“I am profoundly proud of the support we extend as a city, ensuring that those who choose to settle in Coventry feel at home.”

Pupils from Cardinal Newman Catholic School will also unveil their personal narratives of escaping conflict, emphasizing the significance of understanding and reflecting on the Holocaust.

Time Will Tell Theatre will present an impactful reenactment of first-person accounts from the liberation of Bergen-Belsen, commemorating its 80th anniversary.

Additionally, Coventry Music’s brass quintet will perform, while students from the University of Warwick’s Jewish Society will articulate the relevance of Holocaust education.

Councillor Mal Mutton, Lord Mayor of Coventry City Council, expressed:

“Coventry’s acknowledgment as a City of Peace and Reconciliation reflects the city’s profound history and dedication to welcoming individuals from all parts of the globe to establish their homes here.”

“I firmly believe that those who regard Coventry as their home play a crucial part in cultivating a future of peace, harmony, and friendship in the city for generations ahead.”

For additional details on Holocaust Memorial Day, please visit www.hmd.org.uk. To reserve a complimentary spot at this year’s event in Coventry, please navigate to www.coventry.gov.uk/hmd