Why Are Landmarks Turning Purple on Holocaust Memorial Day?

On 27 January, major landmarks across Hull and the UK will light up in purple. This striking display isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a heartfelt way to honour Holocaust Memorial Day. Each year, this date is set aside to remember the millions of lives lost and the unimaginable suffering endured during some of humanity's darkest chapters.

But this year, the occasion carries extra weight. It’s the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration camp complex. Plus, it’s also been 30 years since the genocide in Bosnia. Together, these milestones remind us of the ongoing importance of standing against hate and promoting unity.

Why purple?

If you’ve ever wondered why purple is the chosen colour for Holocaust Memorial Day, it’s because it symbolises dignity, solemnity, and remembrance. By bathing iconic buildings in purple light, cities like Hull send a powerful message: we remember, we reflect, and we stand together against discrimination and hatred.

Hull will join other cities across the UK in lighting up structures from dusk on Monday, 27 January, as part of a nationwide effort to keep these memories alive.

The importance of remembering

Councillor Mike Ross, Leader of Hull City Council, perfectly summed up why this day matters so much:

“It is absolutely right that we take time to remember the 6 million Jewish people who were murdered during the Holocaust.

“We also commemorate the many others killed through persecution by the Nazis, and those targeted in more recent genocides.

“It’s really important that we continue to challenge hatred in whatever form it occurs, and we send a message that it is much better to come together to create a brighter future for us all.”

These words cut straight to the heart of Holocaust Memorial Day. It’s not just about looking back; it’s about challenging hate wherever it exists today. Genocides didn’t end with the Holocaust—there have been others, like those in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia, and Darfur. Remembering the past gives us the chance to confront the present and prevent future atrocities.

How Hull is educating the next generation

Last year, Hull City Council took an innovative step to ensure the significance of Holocaust Memorial Day isn’t lost on younger generations. They produced a video aimed at educating children about the Holocaust.

Why is this so important? Well, for many kids, the Holocaust can feel like a distant event—a thing of history books rather than something that directly impacts today. By creating accessible and thoughtful educational resources, Hull is making sure that young people understand the horrors of hatred and the value of standing against it.

What can you do?

If you’re in Hull—or anywhere else across the UK—why not take a moment on 27 January to pause, reflect, and learn?

Here’s how you can get involved:

• Visit Holocaust Memorial Day Trust’s website: You’ll find stories, resources, and ways to participate.
• Look out for purple landmarks: When you see buildings lit up, take a moment to think about the lives they honour.
• Have conversations: Talk to your family or friends about what you know about the Holocaust or other genocides. Awareness starts with discussions.
• Light a candle: As a symbol of hope and remembrance, lighting a candle can be a small but meaningful act.

Why it matters

Ultimately, Holocaust Memorial Day isn’t just about one day on the calendar. It’s a chance to confront the past, educate future generations, and commit to challenging hatred wherever it appears.

When those purple lights shine across Hull, they’ll stand for more than remembrance—they’ll be a call for unity, kindness, and hope. As Councillor Ross said, creating “a brighter future for us all” begins with remembering the lessons of the past.

Let’s make sure those lessons aren’t forgotten.