STIRLING COUNCIL
STIRLING COUNCIL
THIS REPORT RELATES TO ITEM ON THE AGENDA
CIVIC SERVICES
9 December 1999
NOT EXEMPT
GOVERNMENT PROPOSAL TO HOLD A HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE DAY
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PURPOSE 1.1 To consider the Council’s response to the Government’s proposal to hold a Holocaust Remembrance Day.
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SUMMARY 2.1 2.2 The Home Office has written to all Councils in the UK to consult on the proposal to hold a national Holocaust Remembrance Day. The Government would welcome views on its proposals particularly in relation to:2.2.1 2.2.2 2.2.3 2.3 The aims and objectives of a Holocaust Remembrance Day: The recommended date of 27 January; The types of activities that would be associated with a Holocaust Remembrance Day.
It is anticipated that the first Holocaust Remembrance Day will take place on 27 January 2001.
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RECOMMENDATION(S) 3.1 It is recommended that the Council determines its response to the Government’s proposal to hold a national Holocaust Remembrance day;
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BACKGROUND 4.1 In October 1999 the Home Office minister, Jack Straw, wrote to all Council’s to consult on the Government’s proposal to hold a national Holocaust Remembrance Day. Following the Prime Ministers statement that the horrendous crimes against humanity committed during the Holocaust should never happen again, discussions have taken place between the Government and organisations with a special interest or expertise in the subject of Holocaust education and remembrance.
4.2
4.3
From these discussions various key issues have emerged regarding implementation of the proposed annual Holocaust Remembrance Day. It is on these key issues that the Government has based its consultation exercise details of which are set out below. Aims and Objectives
4.4
The Government believes that the aims of a Holocaust Remembrance Day are:4.4.1 to raise awareness and understanding of the events of the Holocaust as a continuing issue based on a recognition that it could happen again. to highlight the values of a tolerant and diverse society based up the notions of universal dignity and equal rights and responsibility for all its citizens. to provide a national mark of respect for all victims of the Holocaust and demonstrate understanding with all those who still suffer its consequences. Reflect on the recent atrocities that raise similar issues.
4.4.2
4.4.3
4.4.4 4.5
The objectives of a Holocaust Remembrance Day are to:4.5.1 4.5.2 4.5.3 4.5.4 commemorate the communities who suffered as a result of the Holocaust. ensure that the historical events associated with the Holocaust continue to be regarded as being of fundamental importance. educate subsequent generations about the Holocaust and the continued relevance of the lessons that are learnt from it. assert a continuing commitment to oppose racism, anti-Semitism, victimisation and genocide.
Choice of Date 4.6 The Home Office is recommending that the Holocaust Remembrance Day takes place on 27 January with the first Remembrance Day taking place on Saturday 27 January 2001. The key factors supporting this date are as follows:4.7.1 4.7.2 4.7.3 Auchswitz is a powerful and universal image of the Holocaust. It is the most suitable date as it would not clash with public or school holidays or effect examination periods. It would help harmonise the UK’s commemorations with those of other European countries such as Germany and Sweden. This date has already been established as European Union Genocide Remembrance Day
4.7
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Types of Activities Ceremonial 4.8 It is proposed that the Government should set the tone for this Day of Remembrance through a national ceremony led by senior public figures. It is also proposed that institutions at a local level consider their role in organising commemorative events. It is therefore hoped that the above events will encourage a heightened awareness of the relevance of the Holocaust to the British Public. Educational 4.9 As well as delivering education of the Holocaust through the national curriculum the day will present an opportunity to promote informal learning to the public in general. It is hoped that schools and other organisations specialising in Holocaust education and human rights issues could prepare educational material. This material could include booklets, tapes, videos and web pages. Cultural and Community Events 4.10 It is proposed that cultural and community groups at both national and local level consider the contribution they can make to raise awareness and understanding. It is expected that those would have a role on a cultural level would be The Arts Council of England, Regional Arts Boards, Libraries, Museums, Galleries, Broadcasting and Film and Sports Organisation and Groups. On a community level it is expected that Local Authorities, the Voluntary Sector, the Business Community and Community Groups will have a role The Government is seeking views on all of the above and in particular would welcome views and suggestions on the types of activities that could form part of the Holocaust Remembrance Day both nationally and locally.
4.11
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POLICY IMPLICATIONS 5.1 None
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CONSULTATIONS 6.1 The Head of Public Office Services’ comments have been incorporated in this report. No other Service has submitted any comments.
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RESOURCE IMPLICATIONS 7.1 If the Council is to play a key role in the ceremonial and cultural/community events it is likely that there will be some impact on the Provost, Depute Provost, Senior Members and Directors. This proposal would also impact on Council budgets if the Council was to host an event.
7.2
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BACKGROUND PAPERS 8.1 Correspondence from the Home Office dated October 1999
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Author(s) Name Anne Irvine
Designation Support Officer
Tel No/Extension 01786 443130
Approved by Name Bob Jack
Designation Director of Civic Services
Signature
Date
18 November 1999
Reference
BJ/FM/AI
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