HomeMy WebLinkAboutPRO-2026-001-International Holocaust Remembrance Day Proclamation ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Proclamation
International Holocaust Remembrance Day
January 27 , 2026
Commemorating the Past , Confronting Hate , and Committing to a Just Future
WHEREAS , the United Nations has declared January 27th as International Holocaust
Remembrance Day, a solemn occasion to honor the memory of six million Jews murdered in the
Holocaust , and millions of other innocent victims who perished for failing to conform to Nazi
ideology ; and
WHEREAS , we also honor the strength and resilience of the millions who survived Nazi
persecution , enduring unimaginable trauma and loss — including many who have recorded their
personal testimony in books , videos , and personal diaries ; and
WHEREAS , we pay tribute to the courageous individuals , groups , and countries — both Jewish
and non -Jewish — who resisted , physically and spiritually, to stand against injustice and protect
those targeted for extermination ; and
WHEREAS , we remember that the Holocaust did not start with gas chambers — it began with the
erosion of rights and legal protections coupled with state -sponsored propaganda , bigotry, and
dehumanization targeting Jews and others , and which escalated to mass murder and genocide ;
and
WHEREAS , we unequivocally denounce all forms of discrimination , violence , murder, and
genocide against any people , and reaffirm our condemnation of antisemitism , racism , and any
form of bigotry directed at culturally, politically, socially, or ethnically distinctive communities ; and
WHEREAS , we value a community where diverse cultural and religious traditions are honored
and woven into the rich fabric of community life ; and
WHEREAS , in conjunction with the nationwide Light Up in Yellow Campaign .
( Mips _ //www. lightupamericayellow. com/) , the State of North Carolina will light up the State Capitol
in yellow on January 27 , 2026 in honor of International Holocaust Remembrance Day, and
Orange County can join in recognition and remembrance by lighting up select County buildings ;
NOW, THEREFORE , let us unite in remembrance and resolve — committing ourselves to the
creation of a world that is safe , inclusive , and welcoming to all . Let the lessons of the Holocaust
guide us as we foster empathy and justice , speak out against hate in every form , and uphold the
dignity and human rights of every human being .
On this International Holocaust Remembrance Day, we pledge our shared responsibility to build
communities built upon respect and mutual understanding so that " NeverAgain " is not a pro gse
but a lived reality for generations to come . yeas # °uaf�
This the 20t " Day of January, 2026 . A
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Jean Hamilton , Chair
Orange County Board of Commis
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