Holocaust Memorial Day 2025: For a better future

Date published: 24 January 2025

Around 300 people gathered at Belfast City Hall on Thursday evening, January 23, to remember the millions of victims and survivors of the Holocaust and those impacted by the horrors of more recent genocides.

The theme of HMD 2025, ‘For a better future’, highlights how we must become the generations who carry forward the legacy of the witnesses, remember those who were murdered and challenge those who would distort or deny the past, or who discriminate and persecute today. It provides an opportunity for people to come together, learn both from and about the past, and take actions to make a better future for all.

The Regional Commemoration, hosted by The Executive Office in conjunction with the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust and Belfast City Council, heard from Holocaust survivor Peter Lantos, who spoke movingly about the horrors he faced during Nazi rule.

Peter Lantos, who along with his family was deported to a concentration camp in 1944, was unable to make the event due to travel disruption caused by the weather, however he sent a video message. He said: 

“As a Holocaust survivor, having been child prisoner 8431 in Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, the message I have is that of hope. In the darkest of times we should not lose our faith in a better future.”

First Minister Michelle O'Neill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly also spoke at the event.

Michelle O'Neill said: 

“I am honoured to be part of the Holocaust Memorial Day Commemoration. As we pause to remember the past, we resolve to shine a light on suffering and injustice wherever it occurs today.”

Emma Little-Pengelly said: 

“Holocaust Memorial Day reminds us that we must not be complacent in the face of prejudice. Sadly, we see the same hate and prejudice that fuelled the evil acts of the Holocaust in too many places today. We must stand united against this.”

Among those who attended the NI Regional Commemoration were members of the local Jewish community and representatives of other faith groups and minority ethnic communities.

Speaking at the event, Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray, said: 

“Remembering and learning from the Holocaust must continue, and we must never lose sight of our shared responsibility to stand up and say no to all expressions of division and hatred.”

Olivia Marks-Woldman, Chief Executive of the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust, said: 

“On the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, we have been delighted to work again with the NI Executive to support the Northern Ireland Assembly in commemorating Holocaust Memorial Day in this significant anniversary year.

“This year's theme, 'For a Better Future,' reminds us that building a world free from hate and intolerance is our responsibility. As we gather in communities across the country, let us remember our duty to honour the victims and survivors by taking action - challenging prejudice and fostering understanding across generations and communities. By learning from the horrors of the past, we can create a present where freedom is cherished, protected, and enjoyed by every single person.”