Today we were privileged to attend the Holocaust Memorial Day service held at Bishop Gore School. The service brought together pupils from eight different schools in Swansea, and other notable members of the community, including The Right Worshipful the Lord Mayor of the City and County of Swansea, Cllr. David Hopkins, as well as Assembly Members Julie James and Mike Hedges.

The service reflected this year’s Holocaust Memorial Day theme, ‘How can life go on?’ and was a powerful mix of performances featuring poetry, music and memorials. We were particularly moved by the number of children and young people present, who demonstrated a high level of understanding and empathy for individuals who faced persecution during the Holocaust and subsequent genocides. The service included performances from both primary and secondary school pupils and featured performances in Welsh and English.

We were reminded that “there won’t always be survivors to tell their stories first-hand,” by Mrs Jennifer Harding-Richards, Head of Religious studies at Bishop Gore School.

She continued “We cannot change the past, but we can and must shape the future… If we fight hate with love journeys can continue long after a genocide.”

The Right Worshipful the Lord Mayor of the City and County of Swansea, Cllr. David Hopkins explained the decision to hold today’s service in a school: “we chose to celebrate in a school with the youth of Swansea.” He urged audience members to always remember the past, but “commit to creating a better future.”

Today is a poignant day for many of the individuals Swansea City of Sanctuary works with and supports. However, we believe that organisations and individuals from Swansea who choose to work together, can continue to strengthen the culture of welcome that exists throughout our community.

Why not take this opportunity to view the official Holocaust Memorial Day film online.