THE THEME for next year’s Holocaust Memorial Day in Dorchester has been announced.

The event on January 27, 2012, will go under the banner of ‘Speak Up, Speak Out’.

Organisers the South West Dorset Multicultural Network are hoping to encourage people to think about the rights, responsibilities and duty they have to speak up about things they believe are wrong.

Community groups, schools and other organisations are being invited to contribute to the event, either by submitting poems or art work to be displayed at the event or by getting involved with drama, dance, poetry and readings.

Sue Bickle, equality and community development officer at West Dorset District Council, said: “The network has started planning very early for next year’s event, in the hope that they can encourage schools and community groups to take part.

“We are in the midst of a difficult recession at the moment, and history shows us that this is when some sections of the community become scapegoats for the ills of society.

“By speaking out against hate crime of any type, we can encourage a more cohesive community.”

For more information about the event contact 01305 252314.