Aberavon MP asks constituents to 'Stand up to Hatred'
14th January 2009
Today, Dr Hywel Francis MP showed his commitment to Holocaust Memorial Day by signing a Book of Commitment in the House of Commons to honour those who perished in the Holocaust.
In doing so, Dr Francis paid tribute to those individuals who had the courage to 'Stand up to Hatred' in many different ways; by joining resistance movements such as The White Rose at the University of Munich; by speaking out to challenge the hatred being that surrounded them; or by risking their own life to rescue others in danger. January 27th marks the anniversary of the liberation in 1945 of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the infamous concentration and extermination camp.
Dr Hywel Francis said,
"Holocaust Memorial Day marks the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau and it should also serve as an opportunity to remember and reflect on the horrors of the Holocaust and other genocides. Racism and hate are still very much present in our society and together we have a duty to unite our communities and "Stand Up to Hatred". It is essential to continue to educate youngsters about the Holocaust and encourage them to work together towards a better future".
Karen Pollock, Chief Executive of the Holocaust Educational Trust said,
"We are delighted that Dr Hywel Francis MP is supporting Holocaust Memorial Day. Holocaust Memorial Day and Holocaust education is more important now than ever. This year's topic, "Stand Up to Hatred" highlights the importance of joining forces against hatred, prejudice and intolerance. Sadly antisemitism, Islamaphobia, Holocaust denial, racism, prejudice and even genocide still continue to pollute our world today.
At the Holocaust Educational Trust we endeavour to impart the history of the Holocaust to young people, across all communities so they can see where hate and racism can ultimately lead.
It is the participation of all communities and the support of schools, local groups and local government that give this day the impact it has around the country and we applaud their commitment to ensuring the lessons of the past are learnt, acted upon and disseminated."
