Holocaust Memorial Day 2024

Jan 18, 2024

Honouring the Past, Embracing Love and Unity

On January 27th, OneSpirit Interfaith Foundation commemorates International Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD), marking the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi death camp. We stand in solidarity with all those affected by the Holocaust, including the following generations carrying its profound impacts. The Holocaust Memorial Day Trust (HMDT) emphasises the need for remembrance to create a world marked by safety, compassion, and love. In times when our world feels fragile, standing united against prejudice and hatred is paramount.

At OneSpirit, we hold fast to the belief that love can transcend our differences. On this solemn day, we are reminded that we ALL have a role in battling hate and nurturing a harmonious society for everyone. We encourage you to deepen your understanding of HMD and get involved by visiting the Holocaust Memorial Day website.

Today, we honour those individuals impacted by the Holocaust who demonstrated courage in standing against genocide and oppression. We share the inspiring stories of Vali Rácz and Waldemar Nods, whose bravery and compassion saved lives during the Second World War.

Vali Rácz, a talented and popular singer in Hungary, risked her life to save lives during the war. She used her fame to hide five Jewish people and a non-Jewish ‘deserter’ in her home in Budapest, providing them with food and shelter while keeping them hidden from the Gestapo and Hungarian Arrow Cross. Vali’s unwavering determination to protect innocent lives reminds us of the importance of showing compassion and humanity, even in the darkest times. You can read more about Vali’s incredible story on the HMDT website.

Waldemar Nods, a grandson of Surinamese slaves, stood against regressive forces with unwavering courage. Together with his wife, Rika, he provided a haven for Jews during the horrific era of the German occupation. Their tale serves as a reminder to us all that bravery manifests in the face of adversity and their actions embody the values we all try to uphold every day. Learn more about Waldemar and his remarkable life on the HMDT website.

On this Holocaust Memorial Day, let’s come together to light the darkness and honour the lives lost and changed forever by the Holocaust and subsequent genocides. Let’s reaffirm our commitment to promoting understanding, respect, and unity across all cultures and faiths. This year, join us as we participate in the “Digital Light the Darkness” campaign by the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust. We encourage our community to tag us in posts where you #LightTheDarkness so we can continue to spread love and peace.

Together, we can bring light where there is darkness, remember those whose lives were forever changed, and take a stand against hate and prejudice. By honouring the past, we can learn its lessons, commit to fostering love and understanding, and work to create a world that embraces the unity of humanity.

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