Their Majesties mark Holocaust Memorial Day
Thank you to Their Majesties for their continued support of Holocaust remembrance and education.
Image copyright: Ian Jones
Holocaust survivors and their families gathered at Buckingham Palace as Their Majesties The King and Queen marked Holocaust Memorial Day 2026 on 27 January. His Majesty The King is Patron of the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust.
The event took place in halls of Buckingham Palace, where a series of portraits of Holocaust survivors are displayed as part of the Royal Collection. The occasion brought together Holocaust survivors, many attending with their families, including those portrayed in the landmark series Seven Portraits: Surviving the Holocaust, alongside the families of survivors featured in the series who have sadly since passed away. The event gave the opportunity to view the portraits again and for many, to see them for the first time.
The theme for Holocaust Memorial Day 2026 is Bridging Generations, which encourages the next generations to listen, learn and carry these lessons forward. The portraits stand as a powerful testament to lives shaped by persecution, survival and resilience, and to the shared responsibility of ensuring these life stories are carried forward as survivor voices become fewer.
During the event, both of Their Majesties lit a Holocaust Memorial Day candle, symbolising remembrance and reflection.
Sir Sajid Javid, Chair of the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust, said:
“As Holocaust survivor voices become fewer, families and the next generation carry a profound responsibility to ensure these testimonies continue to be shared through the generations. Holocaust Memorial Day is not only about remembering the past, it is also about building understanding, empathy and cohesion in society today. The support of Their Majesties sends a powerful and unequivocal message about the enduring importance of remembrance and education.”
Remember the past. Protect the future.