Holocaust Memorial Day 2026: Bridging Generations
January 27th is observed around the world as Holocaust Memorial Day, recognising the six million Jews who died in the Holocaust, those who died or were targeted under Nazi persecution, and the millions of others who were killed in genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia, and Darfur.
Each year, Aberdeenshire Council recognises the day, with the aim of bringing people together from all backgrounds to consider how we can all make our society a better place today, free from hatred, prejudice, and discrimination.
It was on this one day in 1945 that the largest of the Nazi concentration camps, Auschwitz, was liberated by the Red Army.
It was also on this one day, 55 years later, that governments from around the world met in Stockholm and signed a declaration committing to preserving the memory of those who were murdered in the Holocaust and in the subsequent genocides.
These dates are each just ‘one day’ of importance in history and there are so many more for those who died or were affected by these atrocities. Days where lives changed entirely, days spent in fear. Days in horrific conditions that were undistinguishable from the next, days holding out in hope. Days where some saw a loved one for the last time, or days when, for millions, their lives were taken.
The root cause behind these days, the racism, hatred, discrimination, prejudice, and intolerance, were not just the result of one day. Or one person. These insidious beliefs were allowed to grow, encouraged and promoted over years.
And while there were days where things began to change for the better, we know that sadly there are days, here and now, where people are still impacted by atrocities. We must keep working towards a better future so that one day there is an end to genocides, hate crimes and discrimination.
This year’s theme is ‘Bridging Generations’ and the purpose is to act as a reminder that the responsibility of remembrance doesn't end with the survivors – it lives on through their children, their grandchildren and through all of us.
The theme encourages us all to engage actively with the past, to listen, to learn and to carry those lessons forward. By doing so, we build a bridge between memory and action, between history and hope for the future.
Bridging Generations highlights the crucial role of the next generation in preserving the memory of the Holocaust and carrying it forward. It highlights the power of intergenerational dialogue, of listening to those who came before us and of sharing those stories with those who come after. In doing so, we don’t just preserve memory – we connect it to the present.
Provost of Aberdeenshire Cllr Judy Whyte said: “Today, on Holocaust Memorial Day, we pause to remember one of the darkest chapters in human history.
“We honour the memory of the six million Jewish men, women and children who were murdered during the Holocaust, alongside millions of others who suffered and perished under Nazi persecution and in subsequent genocides. Their lives were stolen, their voices silenced – but their stories must never be forgotten.
“This day is not only about remembrance – it is about responsibility. We have a duty to ensure that the horrors of the Holocaust remain etched in our collective memory, so that future generations understand the devastating consequences of hatred, prejudice, and indifference.
“Education and awareness are powerful tools in safeguarding against such atrocities ever happening again and in Aberdeenshire we remain dedicated in sharing this chapter of history with our young people.”
Each year, people across the UK take part in a national moment for Holocaust Memorial Day. At 8pm, people across the nation will light candles and put them safely in their windows to:
• remember those who were murdered for who they were
• stand against prejudice and hatred today
It is more important than ever before, to learn from the past, and hopefully, rid the world of all prejudices and hatred for future generations.
Across Aberdeenshire Council, the learning is being extended where our Library Service has put together a comprehensive range of resources where we can continue our learning on these events.
You can access these over at the Live Life Aberdeenshire website where there are digital display collections for junior readers, young adults and adults. Library members can download or reserve a physical copy of any of titles from the displays.
The junior and young adult digital displays are also being shared with our primary and secondary schools to support class learning. The library service also has physical displays in a number of their libraries so please drop in by to have a look.
