Cumberland Council will commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day on Tuesday 27 January 2026, by lighting up key buildings in purple across Cumberland, honouring the millions of people affected by genocide.
Key landmarks across Cumberland, including Allerdale House in Workington, Whitehaven’s Beacon Museum, and Carlisle’s Civic Centre, Citadel, Court Square and the Crown & Mitre Hotel will glow purple to commemorate this important day of remembrance. The colour purple has become a recognised symbol of solidarity, remembrance, and hope for the future.
Holocaust Memorial Day takes place annually on the 27 January, marking the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau and invites communities across the world to reflect on the devastating impact of prejudice and persecution. It serves as a poignant reminder of the need to challenge hatred and build a more inclusive world.
Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer, said:
“Holocaust Memorial Day is a solemn reminder of the devastating consequences of hatred and discrimination. By lighting up our landmark buildings in purple, we honour the victims of the Holocaust and all those affected by genocide.
“By coming together in reflection, we ensure that the lessons of the past continue to guide our actions today.”
For more information and for ways you can mark Holocaust Memorial Day this year, visit the following resources:
Holocaust Memorial Day Trust: https://www.hmd.org.uk/ and https://www.hmd.org.uk/digital-light-the-darkness/
The Lake District Holocaust Project: http://ldhp.org.uk/
UNESCO: https://www.unesco.org/en/days/holocaust-remembrance