What's on in Thurrock

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide, during which over 8,000 Bosnian Muslim men and boys were systematically murdered in what the UN has described as the worst atrocity on European soil since the Second World War.

The wider Bosnian War saw over 100,000 killed, thousands of women raped, and more than two million people forced from their homes between 1992 and 1995. On this solemn anniversary, we remember and honour the victims, the survivors, and their families.

In our remembrance, we reflect on what this anniversary means for today’s increasingly polarised world, our society, and how we can act today. We stand together against those who try to divide us and recommit ourselves to opposing hatred, discrimination, and prejudice wherever they rear their head. Only then can our communities and the world be safer, stronger, and more cohesive.

We encourage everyone to join us as we ‘Remember Yesterday and Act Today’.

You are invited to an event to commemorate and remember the 30th anniversary of the genocide in Srebrenica.

10am: Flag raising - Starting at 9.50am on Friday 11 July 2025 at Thurrock Council Reception, Town Hall, we will walk to the flag poles on New Road for a special flag raising.

10.30am to 11am: a Memorial service will be hosted at Grays Town Park, Park Rd, Grays, Essex, RM17 6RB

A new memorial, incorporating a plaque laid in 2022, will be unveiled to remember those killed in the genocide including over 8,000 people – mostly Muslim men and boys, as well as those who continue to live with the grief and loss of the Srebrenica genocide.

You are welcome to stay in the park for refreshments.

Public parking is available on Derby Road and on roads and car parks around Grays town.

Please dress appropriately for the day as both events are outside.