Cumberland Council is encouraging communities across the area to join local schools in commemorating Srebrenica Memorial Day on 11 July.
Each year, Remembering Srebrenica highlights a theme that reflects both the significance of the genocide and its relevance to communities today. The theme for 2026, ‘We Are Here’, honours the voices of survivors who endured profound loss and continue to live with dignity, courage and strength. It also serves as a call for communities to stand together against hate and prejudice.
To commemorate Srebrenica Memorial Day 2026, some of Cumberland Council’s buildings will be lit green.
A series of school assemblies have been organised within the Cumberland area and are being led by Dr Tony Foody from Keswick School. They will be held on the build-up to the international event which this year commemorates the 31st anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide.
At every school Dr Foody visits, he will give them each a Srebrenica flower. These are hand-crafted by The Mothers of Srebrenica, who are survivors of the genocide. The 11 petals on the flower represent the 11 July, the date the genocide took place. The white represents the innocence of the victims and green, hope for the future.
Cllr Elaine Lynch, Cumberland Council Executive Member for Lifelong Learning and Development, said:
“Remembering Srebrenica plays an important role in helping young people understand the impact of the genocide and the lessons we must learn for our own communities.
“By taking part in these activities, our schools and residents can reflect on the importance of challenging prejudice and building a more tolerant society.”
Residents, schools and community groups are encouraged to take part in commemorative activities and to learn more about the genocide and its legacy. A range of free educational resources is available to support this, which can be accessed via the Srebrenica website at Explore learning resources.