SDLP Foyle MP Mark Durkan signs Book of Pledges in support of Srebrenica Memorial Week
SDLP Foyle MP Mark Durkan has signed a Book of Pledges at Westminster in support of Srebrenica Memorial Week (10-17 July) which honours those who were murdered during the genocide 21 years ago.
This week marks the 21st anniversary of the worst atrocity on European soil since World War Two when over 8,000 men and boys were murdered just because of their faith.
The charity Remembering Srebrenica, which organises memorial events across the UK, says that this year it is time to act to counter the rising threat of Hate Crime in the UK.
Mr Durkan has also promised to play his part in ensuring that the lessons from the genocide are learnt and community cohesion is strengthened in Derry and throughout the North.
He said: “Srebrenica Memorial Week reminds us all that a shocking genocide took place only 21 years ago and this should never be forgotten.
“In signing the Book of Pledges we remember those who were brutally murdered and those who were left behind to grieve their loss, and who rebuilt their lives with courage and dignity.
“We also remember the women and girls who were brutally raped as a weapon of ethnic cleansing and remind ourselves of the importance of speaking out against the language of hate, which if allowed to go unchecked, can lead to the dehumanisation of others.
“This important week not only gives us the opportunity to remember the victims and survivors of Srebrenica, but also to work together to make our own community a place of safety that welcomes and cherishes diversity,” added Mr Durkan,
