GENERATIONS have combined to help ensure the memory of the Holocaust remains in the hearts and minds of folk in Tameside.
Both older and young people across the borough have got involved in an art project to commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day.
The theme of this year’s celebration, which took place on Monday, January 27, was learning, remembering and taking action ‘For a Better Future’.
It was chosen by The Holocaust Memorial Day, marking the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau – the largest Nazi concentration camp complex – and the 30th anniversary of the genocide in Bosnia.
Six special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) schools and a Dukinfield care home have worked with Tameside Council’s Cultural Services to create an art installation.
Exploring this year’s theme, Thomas Ashton School, Oakdale Nursery and Primary School, Samuel Laycock School, Cromwell High School, Safe Start School Ashton and Hawthorns Primary School – as well as residents from the Lakes Care Home in Dukinfield – have used their creativity.
The project and art installation comprises of two parts, with Thomas Ashton School pupils creating creating the first part featuring a large sculpture of two mannequins holding hands, each representing a genocide. Also, held in their hands is an umbrella – covered in world flags – with hearts flowing over the edge as the centrepiece.
“We got involved so that generations learn what happened in history,” said teacher Kim McDonough. “Some of our pupils and their families know about the Holocaust and some do not. Most have no idea that subsequent genocides have happened.”
All six schools created the second part as children wrote their names on a heart and added a personal message on the back, to describe what a ‘better future’ would mean to them.
The art installation was unveiled at Thomas Ashton School, on Bennett Street in Hyde, on Monday – when Dukinfield Town Hall was also lit purple in commemoration.
The installation will tour the other schools each week and the piece will be on display at the Local Studies and Archives Centre in Ashton-under-Lyne until Tuesday, February 11.