Lewisham marked Holocaust Memorial Day 2018 with a special commemorative event

Faith groups and children from across Lewisham came together to remember the victims of the Holocaust and other genocides at a special event held at the Rivoli Ballroom in Crofton Park on Sunday

The special commemorative event involved a young people’s production and speeches from local faith leaders.

This year’s theme was ‘The Power of Words’. Young people from local schools put on a production reflecting the theme, which included dance, drama, poetry and speeches.

Former MP, Lord Alfred Dubs, who was a child refugee from Czechoslovakia and travelled on the Kindertransport to the UK, joined Lewisham Mayor Sir Steve Bullock and local faith leaders to mark the event.

Readers at the service included Sir Steve Bullock, Cllr Pauline Morrison, Reverend David Rome, Catford Synagogue, Lord Alfred Dubs, Auschwitz survivor Rachel Levy, and Liane Regenbogen, who travelled to the UK on the Kindertransport.

Councillor Pauline Morrison, chairwoman of the Holocaust Memorial Committee, said: “Every year, the Holocaust Memorial Day reminds us of the importance of respecting each other, regardless of beliefs and background. I am proud of what Lewisham council is doing to create an inclusive and welcoming community for present and future generations”.