Watford has joined communities around the world who come together each year to commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day (27 January).
Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor and Chairman Cllr Simon Feldman were joined by representatives from Watford and District Synagogue, Rabi Mordechai Chalk and Carolyn Linton and Sergeant Karl Diggins from Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Community Safety Unit, as they laid a wreath at the foot of Anne Frank’s tree outside of Watford Central Library.
Saturday 27 January marks the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau and remembers all of those who were killed, not only then, but in genocide that followed in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Dafur.
Watford holds a profound connection to the Holocaust, stemming from its pivotal role in the 'Kindertransport' mission and the compassionate endeavours of Mrs. Kathleen Freeman OBE. Mrs. Freeman willingly opened her home, known as 'The Welcome House,' to refugee children during this critical period. In acknowledgment of her selfless contributions, Mrs. Freeman OBE was honoured during the council's centenary celebrations in 2022 as one of the 100 individuals who have significantly shaped Watford.
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: "The theme of this year’s Holocaust Memorial Day is the fragility of freedom. We must always stand together against all forms of discrimination, racism and hatred.
“We lay a wreath at Anne Frank's tree each year to remember the victims of the Holocaust and other genocides, and to underscore our commitment to preserving freedom for future generations."
Chairman, Councillor Simon Feldman, said: "Having Jewish heritage in my family it’s a privilege to be able to represent Watford on this important day of commemoration. On Holocaust Memorial Day we pay tribute to the incredible human spirit that compels us to strive for a world where empathy triumphs over hatred.”
Image L to R – Sergeant Karl Diggins, Chairman Cllr Simon Feldman, Carolyn Linton, Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor and Rabi Mordechai Chalk
