South Devon councils and communities to commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day

Torbay Council is marking Holocaust Memorial Day on 27 January, with a full programme of remembrance events also taking place in nearby Exeter.

The day commemorates the six million Jewish men, women and children murdered during the Holocaust, along with millions more who suffered under Nazi persecution. It also honours victims of other genocides throughout history.

The theme for 2026, Bridging Generations, highlights that the responsibility of remembrance does not end with survivors. The lessons of the past live on through their children, grandchildren, and communities today. The theme encourages reflection, learning, and action to build a bridge between history and hope for the future.

To mark the occasion, Torbay Council will lower flags at Torquay Town Hall to half-mast on 27 January.

The council is also using the day to remind residents about the importance of reporting hate crimes, which are criminal offences motivated by race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, gender, or gender identity. Victims or witnesses can report hate crimes to the police, helping authorities understand and prevent such offences. More information is available via Torbay Council’s Hate Crime page.

In Exeter, the Devon Faith and Belief Forum and partners are hosting an Opening Ceremony and second-generation survivor talk on Kindertransport at Exeter Cathedral (10am–11:15am), followed by talks, seminars, a film display on the Porrajmos (Roma and Sinti genocide) and the art of Samuel Bak at The Mint Methodist Church. An art exhibition responding to the Holocaust, featuring works exploring pain and resilience (including Samuel Bak), opens at the University of Exeter Forum on 28 January and runs all day 29–30 January.

Civic Mayor of Torbay, Councillor Barbara Lewis, said: “Holocaust Memorial Day reminds us of the six million Jews and all those persecuted under the Nazi regime, as well as victims of more recent genocides. By reflecting on these tragedies, we learn the importance of speaking out against persecution, challenging hatred, and safeguarding freedoms we sometimes take for granted.

“This day ensures the lives lost and communities destroyed are never forgotten. It also strengthens our commitment to educating future generations about the consequences of racism and intolerance. We encourage everyone in our community to join us in marking this day and honouring the memory of all who suffered.”