Holocaust survivor to speak at annual commemoration
A woman who survived the Holocaust will be speaking at Dudley’s annual Holocaust Commemoration on Friday, 17 January between 12.30pm and 1.45pm.
The annual event, which is organised by a committee including Dudley College’s Students Union, the Holocaust Educational Trust and a small group of volunteers chaired by Councillor Keiran Casey, will take place in the Great Hall at Dudley College’s Broadway Campus.
Starting over a decade ago, the event is always an opportunity to pause and reflect, remembering the millions of people who suffered in the Holocaust under Nazi persecution, ensuring this and other atrocities are never forgotten, as well as bringing civic, community and faith leaders together alongside residents and students.
This year, special guest speaker Hedi Argent MBE will be talking about her personal experience of the Holocaust.
Chair of the organising committee, Councillor Keiran Casey said: “We are very grateful to Hedi for agreeing to come to Dudley and share her story. It's amazing that Holocaust survivors spend their time going all around the country teaching people where hatred and prejudice can lead.
“Hundreds of local people, including political, faith and community leaders come to this event each year, which really help bring our communities together and make these stronger.
Since these events started well over a decade ago, we’ve been able to reflect on the horrors of the past and pledge ourselves to fighting injustice and hatred wherever we may find it”.
Jack Stokes, President of Dudley College Students' Union said: “We are delighted to once again collaborate and highlight the profound significance of this event for our student members.
While acknowledging the unique and incomparable nature of the Holocaust, we must recognise its enduring relevance in the face of current day injustices. This memorial serves as a reminder of the fragility of freedom in our world today.
We are compelled to break the silence and confront present-day wrongs, understanding that the lessons from this dark chapter in history propel us to educate our community and commit to preserving its memory.”
