Written by Nick Musson
On January 27th to mark Holocaust Memorial Day members of the LGBT community, Jewish Faith, Jehovah’s Witnesses, and others affected by the Holocaust encourage that you ‘Don’t Stand By’, and remember those that lost their lives.
The Holocaust is one of the darkest moments in human history in which nearly 11 million people lost their lives. However it would appear that we haven’t learnt from the causes of this event. The persecution and genocide of sections of society still take place in various countries around the world, because we as a society are stuck in a self perpetuating loop of fear, hate and discrimination. The main reason for such discrimination is due to the various labels that we are assigned throughout our lives. They serve to define and divide us. It is through misunderstanding and ignorance that persecution as seen during the Holocaust is allowed to take place. However through education, promoting awareness and acceptance these issues can be resolved. During the holocaust sections of society were forced to wear physical labels which singled them out, heightening discrimination through the promotion of an ‘us and them’ mentality. These labels were made public for everyone to see; Homosexuals were branded with a pink triangle, the Jewish faith a yellow Star of David and political enemies and professional criminals a red and green triangle respectively. Still 60 years later labels are the facilitator for discrimination and persecution around the world. Allowing us to divide society into ‘us and them’. Until that stops we must not stand by.
However during such atrocities there are those who ‘Don’t Stand By’. Those who take action and speak out. It is only after some many years later that their efforts come to light. As of 2016, some 25,685 individuals from 49 countries have been recognised and awarded the ‘righteous of nations’ award for taking a stand against the Nazi regime and helping to save the lives of innocent individuals. These are just those that we are aware of. There are undoubtedly many more who stood up and Holocaust Memorial Day is just as much about them as it is the victims. A chance to remember those who put their lives on the line to protect the rights and safety of others.
This year the theme for Holocaust Memorial Day is ‘Don’t Stand By’, it’s a simple phrase but has a big message which can help to challenge discrimination and bring about positive change. In the current climate of war, religious hostility and the ongoing discrimination of many. It brings about the importance of days such at the Holocaust Memorial Day. Whilst a simple action to us might seem just that. To someone else it could mean the world of difference. The positive action of one person can influence the minds and actions of others.
This Holocaust Memorial Day is held in association with Thames Valley Police, My Umbrella, Acre and Support U. A vigil to remember those who fell victim to the awful events of the Holocaust will take place on Wednesday 27th at 7pm by the Trooper Potts Memorial Statue outside Forbury Hotel. By remembering the events of the past, we can learn from them, in the hope that such things don’t happen again.