On Saturday 27th January, The Island Free School played host to a Holocaust Memorial Service led by the Isle of Wight Jewish Society. This was attended by many dignitaries including Bob Seely MP, the Lord-Lieutenant of the Isle of Wight Major General Martin White CB CBE JP, and Councillor Lora Peacey-Wilcox, Chair of the Isle of Wight Council. It was a sobering evening of reflection regarding the persecution of the Jews in Nazi Germany and other genocides around the world, which were read by pupils from Ryde School with Upper Chine. Candles were lit by pupils from Ryde as well as members of our Jazz Band. We also listened to a personal reflection of the impacts of the Holocaust by Eva Alexander. The Jazz Band played “The Partisan’s Song” as invited guests were seated in the hall and finished the service with a rousing rendition of “Hava Nagila”. It was a poignant reminder of atrocities that have taken place and are currently taking place around the world and why we must never forget.

PHOTO CREDIT: MICHAEL DUNKASON

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