Holocaust Memorial Day 2025 in Ashford
Leaders from Ashford Borough Council and local representatives gathered at the Ashford Memorial Gardens yesterday to commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day 2025.
A poignant service of reflection included the planting of a posy by the Anne Frank tree, a symbol of remembrance for the millions lost to war in the 20th century.
In attendance were Mayor of Ashford Cllr Lyn Suddards, MP Sojan Joseph, Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Kent Sir George Jessel, Council Leader Cllr Noel Ovenden, CEO Tracey Kerley, and other dignitaries. The Mayor and Sir Jessel jointly placed the posy at the base of the tree, which was planted in 1999.
The service featured prayers, a reading of Martin Niemöller’s powerful poem “First They Came…”, a blessing, and a period of solemn silence. This year’s Holocaust Memorial Day theme, “For a Better Future,” emphasized the importance of learning from the past to build a more inclusive and tolerant society.
Mayor Suddards stated:
“We must remember the victims of genocide and strive to create a world where such atrocities can never happen again.”
Further information on Holocaust Memorial Day and why it’s so important can be found on the Ashford Borough Council website.