Holocaust Memorial Day

Every year on 27 January, the world marks Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD). The day for everyone to remember the six million Jews murdered in the Holocaust, and the millions of people killed in Nazi Persecution and in subsequent genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur. 27 January marks the liberation of Auschwitz-Berkenau, the largest Nazi death camp. HMD has taken place in the UK since 2001.

2025 theme: For a Better Future

The theme for Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) 2025 is For a Better Future.

This Holocaust Memorial Day marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau the largest Nazi concentration camp complex, and the 30th anniversary of the genocide in Bosnia.

There are many things we can all do to create a better future. We can speak up against Holocaust and genocide denial and distortion; we can challenge prejudice; we can encourage others to learn about the Holocaust and more recent genocides.

Genocides do not happen overnight, they often begin with discrimination and hostility and develop over time into dangerous behaviours and actions. Because of this, it is important to learn about the 10 stages of genocide so we can recognise when we need to speak up and make a change.

For information on reporting hate crimes, please visit https://www.doncaster.gov.uk/services/crime-anti-social-behaviour-nuisance/reporting-hate-crime

2025 Tree Planting Project

In honour of Holocaust Memorial Day 2025, the City of Doncaster Council have undertaken a significant tree planting project.

To commemorate the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, 80 trees have been planted across four parks in Doncaster with each tree symbolising a year since this pivotal moment. This initiative not only serves as a living tribute to the memory of those who suffered during the Holocaust but also stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of combating hatred and intolerance in our society.

Through this project, we aim to educate and inspire future generations to uphold the values of peace and unity.

Each park has an educational Holocaust information panel nearby the memorial trees. The trees and information panels can be found in the parks listed below.

Bentley Park, Bentley
Miners Welfare Recreation Ground, Conisbrough
Reeves Way/Jenkinson Grove park, Armthorpe
Sandall Park, Wheatley

Location

A service is proposed to be held on 27 January at the Mansion House, followed by a wreath laying service at the Memorial stone which is located in the grounds of the old Archives on Chequer Road.

More details will become available closer to the date on the Twitter page @DoncasterHMD

Remembrance Book

A book of remembrance will again be placed in various locations for people to sign. The book is stored at Doncaster Archives, if you wish to view or add to the book please ask staff to retrieve it for you.