Honoring Resilience: International Holocaust Remembrance Day 2026

Today, January 27, 2026, the global community pauses to observe International Holocaust Remembrance Day 2026. This date marks the 81st anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration and extermination camp. It is a day dedicated to honoring the six million Jews murdered during the Shoah, as well as the millions of other victims of Nazi persecution, including the Roma and Sinti, people with disabilities, and political dissidents.

Why We Observe International Holocaust Remembrance Day 2026

The United Nations designated this day not only as a somber tribute to those lost but as a living commitment to "Never Forget". In a time of rising global antisemitism and xenophobia, observing International Holocaust Remembrance Day 2026 serves as a critical reminder of where hatred can lead if left unchallenged.

Commemoration serves several vital roles:

• Dignity for Victims: Official observances restore humanity to those who were systematicially dehumanized.

• Education for the Future: Learning from these events helps societies develop strategies to prevent future genocides.

• Combatting Denial: By bearing witness to survivor testimony, we counter modern disinformation and Holocaust distortion.

2026 Themes and Commemorations

The central theme for the United Nations' outreach in 2026 is "Holocaust Remembrance for Dignity and Human Rights". This focus underscores that the defense of universal rights is the bedrock of sustainable peace.

Events taking place today include:

• The UN General Assembly Hall: A memorial ceremony featuring survivor testimonies and official remarks from international leaders.

• Auschwitz-Birkenau: A central commemoration event held in the sauna building at the former camp site, focusing entirely on the voices of survivors.

• Virtual Initiatives: The "IRemember Wall" by Yad Vashem and digital challenges like #everynamecounts allow people worldwide to participate from their own homes.

The Enduring Impact of Trauma

For many survivors and their families, the Holocaust is not just a historical event but a lifelong struggle with "buried trauma". Even decades later, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be triggered by current events, isolation, or the aging process. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that survivors receive the trauma-informed, person-centered care they need to live with dignity.

Resources for Survivors and PTSD Support

If you or a loved one is a survivor struggling with trauma or in need of assistance, the following organizations offer specialized support:

• Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany (Claims Conference): Provides compensation and grants for home care, food, and medicine. Access Here.

• Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS): Offers holistic, trauma-informed advocacy and social services for survivors. Find a Local Agency.

• MJHS Health System: Specializes in person-centered care and PTSD management for aging survivors. Learn More.

• The Blue Card: Provides direct financial assistance to Holocaust survivors in need. Visit Website.

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Offers general resources for coping with trauma, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms. Coping with Trauma.