People of all ages gathered at Lowewood Museum Gardens on Tuesday 27 January to mark Holocaust Memorial Day 2026, joining together in remembrance under this year’s theme, ‘Bridging Generations’.
The memorial provided a moment for quiet reflection for the lives taken during the Holocaust, as well as those killed in later genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur.
One of the most powerful aspects of the service was the involvement of local school pupils, who delivered readings throughout the ceremony. Their participation underlined the importance of passing on the stories, lessons and responsibilities of remembrance from one generation to the next.
The programme also included music, prayers, the lighting of candles and the laying of flowers. A particularly poignant moment saw shoes laid in memory of those who lost their lives, a symbolic act that invited those present to reflect on individual lives behind the statistics.
The event was attended by the Mayor of Broxbourne, Councillor Patsy Spears, the Deputy Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, Mark Bretton MBE TD, and the Leader of Broxbourne Council, Councillor Corina Gander, alongside faith leaders, local councillors and residents.
Mayor of Broxbourne, Councillor Patsy Spears, said:
Standing here today and hearing young people read words written by those who lived through the Holocaust, was incredibly moving. Holocaust Memorial Day is not only about remembering the past, but about recognising our shared responsibility to challenge hatred and prejudice wherever we see it. By coming together as a community, we ensure these lessons are carried forward.
Let us be the voices that speak up when we see the small seeds of prejudice. We remember the past not to be trapped by it, but to be transformed by it.
May the memory of all who have suffered and is suffering, be a blessing. May it guide us toward a world where ‘Never Again’ truly means everyone, everywhere.
Holocaust Memorial Day continues to serve as a reminder of the consequences of indifference and the importance of speaking out, remembering, and educating future generations.