Holocaust Memorial Day: We Remember Together
On 27 January, the world commemorates the victims of the Holocaust – one of the greatest tragedies of the 20th century.
Six million Jews were murdered by the Nazi regime during the Second World War. Quarter of this number - around one and a half million of them were killed on the territory of Ukraine. They were murdered in death camps, in ghettos, and in mass shootings in Babyn Yar, Drobytskyi Yar, Kamianets‑Podilskyi, and hundreds of other places where entire communities were destroyed.
Today, as a new war unfolds in Europe, we bow our heads in memory of the millions who were killed simply for the right to exist. We also honour those who, at the risk of their own lives, chose to save others. Even in the darkest moments of history, people can choose humanity — and that choice remains just as vital today.
Holocaust Memorial Day is the UK’s national day of remembrance for all those who suffered under Nazi persecution and in subsequent genocides. Each year, a short service is held at The Milton Keynes Rose, with readings, reflections and performances from local schools and community groups. This year, students from a local school, who recently visited Auschwitz, shared their experiences through stories and readings — a powerful reminder of why memory matters.
On behalf of the Ukrainian community in Milton Keynes, Ukraine Appeal CIO joins this important commemoration. Our histories are deeply connected: Ukrainians and Jews lived side by side for centuries, and today we stand together in remembrance, solidarity and compassion. We honour the victims, and we honour the Righteous Among the Nations — those who risked everything to save others, proving that even in times of terror, humanity can prevail.
As a community that has also experienced war, displacement and loss, we extend our heartfelt support to our Jewish neighbours. We stand united in our commitment to peace, dignity and respect for all cultures. We reject antisemitism, racism and hatred in every form, and we work towards a world where every child can grow up safe, valued and free.
We remember. We stand together. We choose humanity.
