Stornoway: a powerful example of human rights activity
The Western Isles Diversity and Equality Steering Group (DESG) presents a week-long programme of events to commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day – including a Seminar on Friday 26 January where there will be an opportunity to hear from distinguished speakers Kate Allen, Director of Amnesty International UK, and Bruce Adamson, Commissioner for Children and Young People in Scotland.
Words have a mighty power, articulating in writing or speech what is otherwise unsaid. They can reflect thoughts, views and attitudes, and can also play an active role in shaping them,” writes the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust (HMDT).
“Kind words can take on disproportionate power in times of intimidation and insecurity, where some people are victimised and persecuted. Words used to good effect can restore hope, courage or faith.
“Words that are used to ill-effect, when seen or heard, can normalise what might otherwise have been considered too extreme. Harsh words, or words that feed negative stereotypes, can fuel tensions, increase vulnerability and even incite violence.”
It is now the sixth year that Holocaust Memorial Day has been marked in the Western Isles and events begin on Monday, January 22nd, with the majority open to the general public and held in Lewis Castle College UHI.
Included in the programme will be an audio visual exhibition ‘The I Welcome Photo Exhibition’ by Amnesty International and Magnum Photos which highlights stories of refugees past and present; as well as ‘How to Report Hate Crime – 10 reasons why you really should’ featuring contributions from the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust and others.