The Mayor of Dorchester attended a school exhibit last Friday where works were selected to be featured at an upcoming memorial day display.
Councillor Alistair Chisholm visited Dorchester Middle School where 150 year 8 students hosted an exhibition entitled the “The Fragility of Freedom” - this year's theme for Holocaust Memorial Day.
Each student was asked to create a piece which represents the fragility of freedom, symbolising their emotional responses to learning about Holocaust Memorial Day.
The works varied from models, paintings and posters to music, videos, and cardboard cut-outs.
Seven other elected officials were also in attendance: Cllrs Janet Hewitt (Deputy Mayor of Dorchester), David Leper, Kate Reid, Les Fry, Richard Biggs, Robin Potter, and Stella Jones. Parents and additional guests were also present.
In a speech to the children, Cllr Chisholm said: “The response has been amazing! Each and every exhibit I saw had responded differently to a hugely important issue, which is the subject of this year’s Holocaust Memorial. So, thank you to all the members of staff who have clearly worked incredibly effectively to initiate this and to give you the scope to think about it yourselves.
“I would defy anybody to look at each and everyone of these exhibits and not be moved to think or possibly rethink what they feel about freedom and its fragility. So, a huge congratulations to all the students.”
Each councillor selected a particular piece of work they were most impressed with. Over fifty pieces of work were chosen to be displayed at an exhibition for Holocaust Memorial Day at the Corn Exchange in Dorchester today.
READ MORE: Holocaust Memorial Service to be held in Dorchester
One student, Jamie in 8JS, said: “It was great to have the mayor, councillors and the other guests come to our school to see our work. We really enjoyed making our exhibits too. More importantly, it was fascinating to learn about issues in our world. We need to know what is going on so we can make sure freedom is there for everyone, always.”
More information about this year's theme and today's memorial day service can be found on the Dorset Council website: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/news/holocaust-memorial-day-a-time-for-remembrance-and-reflection
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