Holocaust Memorial Day, observed on 27th January, is a moment for us to honour the six million Jewish people murdered during the Holocaust, alongside the millions of Roma and Sinti people, disabled people, LGBTQ+ people, political prisoners, and victims of more recent genocides.
The theme for Holocaust Memorial Day 2026 is Bridging Generations — a call to action that reminds us that the responsibility of remembrance does not end with survivors, but continues through their children, their grandchildren, and through all of us. This theme highlights the importance of intergenerational learning, preserving memory, and carrying the lessons of the Holocaust forward into the future. It encourages us to listen, to learn, and to build connections between past and present so that the reality of what happened is never forgotten. [hmd.org.uk]
This year, Blaenau Gwent Council will mark Holocaust Memorial Day through a series of activities across the borough, providing opportunities for reflection, learning and remembrance.
How we will be marking the day
- Reflection Space at Tredegar Library
From Monday 26th until Friday 30th January a dedicated reflection space will offer a quiet area for visitors to learn, reflect, and engage with this year’s theme of Bridging Generations. - Born Survivor – Testimony of Eva Clarke
Copies of Born Survivor, sharing the remarkable story of Holocaust survivor and Freeman of Blaenau Gwent Eva Clarke, will be available in all Blaenau Gwent libraries, supporting the transmission of survivor testimony across generations. - Lighting of the General Offices
On the evening of 27th January, the General Offices building will be illuminated purple as a visible symbol of remembrance and solidarity.
Tredegar Town Council will also join the commemoration, illuminating Tredegar Town Clock in purple and white and holding a Holocaust Memorial Vigil at 8pm.
Holocaust Memorial Day challenges us to reflect on the consequences of hatred, racism, and dehumanisation. This year’s theme reinforces why it is vital that we continue to share stories, challenge prejudice, and ensure that future generations understand the truth and gravity of the Holocaust.
