Keeping Holocaust Memory Alive in West Lothian - Holocaust Memorial Day 2026

The annual commemorative date that takes place every year on the 27 January and this year's theme for Holocaust Memorial Day is 'Bridging Generations', which encourages us all to engage actively with the past - to listen, to learn and to carry those lessons forward. By doing so, we build a bridge between memory and action, between history and hope for the future.

Leader of West Lothian Council, Councillor Lawrence Fitzpatrick opened the event, which featured presentations from pupils from West Calder High School, St Margaret's Academy and Armadale Academy, who each spoke on their studies and personal reflections in connection to the Holocaust.

During the service, Nick Silk from the Edinburgh Liberal Jewish Community led on two powerful remembrance prayers, with emotive musical performances from the West Lothian Schools Flute Ensemble and a lament from piper Arthur Mackay from West Lothian Schools Pipe Band during the service.

The service was brought to a close by Provost Cathy Muldoon, with those in attendance invited to lay a pebble at the memorial cedar tree in Howden Park.

Provost Muldoon said: "Thanks to everyone who attended the moving Holocaust Memorial Day ceremony today. It's important we ensure the teachings from the Holocaust and other genocides are kept alive for future generations."