Holocaust Memorial Day

The Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Gwent, Eleri Thomas, joined community and faith leaders in an online event hosted by Gwent Police to commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day.

The annual event remembers the six million Jews murdered during the Holocaust, and those killed in genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur.

Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner, Eleri Thomas, said: “I was honoured to attend the event to commemorate the millions of people who have lost their lives in the Holocaust and later genocides.

“Listening to the moving and powerful words of faith leaders and members of the community really brought to life the suffering that millions of people have experienced, and are still sadly facing, as they flee countries to escape genocide.

“Unfortunately, across the world the pandemic, political pressures and social and economic anxieties have caused an increase in community tension. Sadly, discrimination still occurs. We must continue to promote and safeguard our principles of tolerance, inclusivity and equality.

“I want Gwent to be a place where people can live, work and visit without fear of experiencing hatred of any kind, including religious intolerance.

“Supporting victims of hate crime is a priority for the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner and is taken very seriously. There are many organisations in Gwent that can help, I urge anyone who has been a victim of a hate crime to seek support. 

“By working together, we can build a more cohesive community, free from fear and hatred.”

Connect Gwent offers support to victims of hate crime in Gwent. Visit connectgwent.org.uk or call 0300 123 2133.