We Believe in Israel (WBII) Statement on IHRC’s Call for Universities and Councils to Boycott Holocaust Memorial Day

The Islamic Human Rights Commission’s (IHRC) call for universities and councils to boycott Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) is a deeply troubling development that strikes at the heart of historical truth and societal unity. This brazen attempt to undermine a day dedicated to reflecting on humanity’s darkest chapter not only dishonours the memory of the Holocaust’s victims but also jeopardises the vital work of educating future generations about the consequences of hatred and prejudice.

Holocaust Memorial Day is not a political statement. It is a solemn and inclusive moment for people of all backgrounds to remember the millions of Jews and others who perished in the Holocaust, as well as the victims of subsequent genocides. It is a day for reflection, education, and unity—values that transcend political and ideological divides. By encouraging universities and councils to boycott this essential occasion, the IHRC is promoting division and enabling the erosion of historical truth at a time when antisemitism and Holocaust denial are on the rise.

The IHRC’s call for a boycott is part of a dangerous trend that conflates Holocaust remembrance with narrow political narratives, including the weaponisation of antizionism as a guise for antisemitism. This tactic not only distorts the universal lessons of the Holocaust but also fosters a climate of hostility toward Jewish communities. Universities and councils that heed this call risk alienating students, staff, and residents who recognise the importance of remembrance in fostering inclusion, tolerance, and mutual understanding.

We Believe in Israel (WBII) firmly rejects the IHRC’s attempt to politicise Holocaust Memorial Day and calls on universities and councils across the UK to resist this divisive agenda. Instead, we urge these institutions to embrace HMD as an opportunity to educate, unite, and reflect. Universities, as centres of learning, have a particular responsibility to lead by example, ensuring students understand the Holocaust’s historical significance and its ongoing relevance in combating prejudice and extremism. Local councils, as representatives of diverse communities, should also play a key role in promoting HMD observance, hosting inclusive events, and fostering dialogue that strengthens social cohesion.

WBII also calls on the UK government to take decisive action by enshrining Holocaust Memorial Day in law. This step would safeguard HMD’s place as a cornerstone of Britain’s commitment to remembrance, education, and the fight against hatred. It would send a clear message that attempts to undermine this day, such as the IHRC’s boycott, will not succeed in eroding Britain’s resolve to honour the memory of the Holocaust and uphold its lessons.

The IHRC’s boycott call is a stark reminder of the importance of Holocaust Memorial Day in countering misinformation, distortion, and division. Institutions that reject this call and actively participate in HMD reaffirm their commitment to the values of truth, justice, and human dignity. By standing together in remembrance, universities, councils, and communities can ensure that the lessons of the Holocaust remain a powerful force for good, teaching future generations to value inclusion and to resist the forces of hate.

We urge all leaders, educators, and institutions to reject the IHRC’s divisive agenda and to reaffirm their commitment to Holocaust Memorial Day. Together, we can ensure that the promise of “Never Again” is not only remembered but realised in a society that values unity, truth, and justice for all.