NICOLA Sturgeon stressed the need for society to stand together “against hatred and prejudice” in her Holocaust Memorial Day message.
The First Minister, who was joined by leaders from across the political spectrum, warned against discrimination, saying it is “our collective societal responsibility” to battle injustice.
This year’s vigil marked the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz by the Russian Red Army on January 27, 1945. More than 1.1 million people were killed there, most of them Jewish.
Sturgeon said: “Holocaust Memorial Day is an important reminder of the millions of people who were murdered, or whose lives were changed forever, during the Holocaust and other genocides.
“By marking this date, we must reflect upon and learn the important lessons from these horrendous acts of violence and terror. We pay tribute to the survivors, who were forced to flee their homes and livelihoods in the face of unthinkable persecution.
“We also honour the legacy of those who demonstrated immense bravery and courage fighting for liberty, freedom and justice, many of whom, sadly, paid with their lives.”
She added: “This year is particularly poignant as we observe the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz and 25 years since the genocide in Srebrenica.
“The theme for this Holocaust Memorial Day – Stand Together – highlights the importance of our collective societal responsibility to stand against hatred and prejudice and to promote strong, inclusive and respectful communities.
“We all need to work together to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, race, faith or sexuality is treated with equal respect and dignity.”
Scottish Labour leader Richard Leonard said: “The genocide of the Nazis must never be forgotten. But we also have a duty today to root out antisemitism wherever we find it.”
Scottish Liberal Democrats leader Willie Rennie said the anniversary should “prompt us all to reflect on the horrors that went on there and the importance of educating the next generation so these atrocities are never repeated”.
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