Commemorations contribute to the promotion of human rights and foster the personal responsibility of citizens in democratic societies. They show appreciation for the diverse cultures which make up Canada. Conflicts claiming hundreds of thousands of lives continue to plague society today.Ĭommemoration and education raise awareness about the danger of prejudice, hatred, radical and extremist movements and totalitarian regimes. The 20th century saw several genocides and crimes against humanity in addition to the Holocaust, including the Armenian genocide, ethnic cleansing in the former Yugoslavia and genocide in Srebrenica, the Cambodian Genocide, and the Rwandan Genocide. It illustrates how these can create the preconditions for genocide. Remembering, discussing and learning about the Holocaust is important not only because it helps us gain a better understanding of the past, but because it also raises awareness about contemporary forms of antisemitism, xenophobia and hatred. The Holocaust and other contemporary genocides They are a form of active engagement and commitment linking the past to the future. They underlign the loss of individual human lives and what this loss represents for humanity. A commemoration is both somber and inspirational, and is therefore a fitting way to conclude an educational experience.Ĭommemorations have an emotional appeal and can be steeped in the religious and social traditions of many communities or societies. They help us reflect on the ideologies and actions that can lead to genocide, as well as on preventative measures. The role of commemorationsĬommemorations help students and adults develop knowledge and awareness of genocide and war. As well, we highlight the resilience and contributions of survivors, who have rebuilt their lives in the countries that welcomed them after the war. We also remember rescuers and liberators. We particularly honour the memory of those with no family left to remember them. Holocaust commemorations are an occasion to remember the six million Jewish victims, as well as the non-Jewish victims of Nazi oppression.

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