Communities from across the Thurrock came together in remembrance of the 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide, during a special commemorative event organised by Thurrock Council and Thurrock's Bosnian community.
'Remembering Srebrenica' honours the memory of more than 8,000 Bosnian Muslim men and boys who were murdered in July 1995. Bosnian refugees were rescued and brought to the UK with a small community transported to Orsett Hospital. With treatment and support, they now live in Thurrock, contributing to the Borough and helping others learn of their experiences.
A commemorative event was held in Grays, beginning with a flag raising ceremony outside the Civic Offices, followed by a memorial service in Grays Town Park.
The theme for this year’s commemoration, “Remember Yesterday, Act Today”, calls on all communities to reflect on the lessons of the past and take action against division, discrimination, and prejudice in today’s world.
The event brought together councillors, community members, and representatives from the Bosnian community to reflect on the atrocities of the Bosnian War and reaffirm the importance of peace and unity.
A new memorial was unveiled in the park, incorporating a plaque first laid in 2022, to serve as a lasting tribute to the victims and those who continue to live with the grief and loss of the Srebrenica genocide.
Cllr Sue Shinnick, Mayor of Thurrock, joined the memorial service, and said:
“It is hugely important that we continue to remember all of those that are no longer with us and the families whose lives are forever changed because of the horrors of Srebrenica.
“The new memorial acts as a permanent symbol of our commitment to never forget and to stand against hatred in all its forms.”
Cllr Lynn Worrall, Leader of the Council, was also in attendance, and said: “I was proud to see so many members of our community join us at the memorial today, standing in solidarity against hatred and intolerance.
“As we mark this anniversary, we honour all the victims of the genocide, as well as the survivors, some of whom rebuilt their lives here in Thurrock.”
Cllr John Kent, Cabinet Member for Sustainability, Art, Culture and Heritage, said: " I am proud that Thurrock Council has made a commitment to always Remember Srebrenica, that we Remember Yesterday and the suffering of so many. Our commitment is strongly supported by Thurrock’s Bosnian community who, in partnership with Thurrock Council, have organised commemorative events since 2018.
"By coming together, and unveiling the memorial designed by our friends from Bosnia, we act today to reiterate our commitment to stand up to hatred, discrimination, and oppression and build a safer, stronger and more cohesive society for all."
In March 2021, Thurrock Council formally committed to remembering Srebrenica each year, ensuring that the victims and survivors of the genocide are never forgotten.
