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Scottish students learn holocaust lessons
27/01/2005
Art and literature inspired and created by Holocaust survivors is set to help Scottish pupils better understand the events of the Second World War.
At an event to mark Scottish Holocaust Memorial Day in Hamilton, Education Minister Peter Peacock launched an innovative teaching tool designed to bring the past to life for Scottish secondary pupils.
The teaching pack and DVD - The Arts and The Holocaust: Lessons from the past for citizens of today - gives ideas on using the arts to consider the context and events of the Holocaust. Art, music and literature inspired by this tragic period in history will be used to encourage debate and discussion.
Mr Peacock said:
"Today is an opportunity to reflect and remember all those who died and suffered during the Holocaust. This terrible episode of history must never be forgotten. We must use what has been learnt since to ensure such events never happen again.
"That is why we have funded this teaching pack which explores the issues of the Holocaust, using art, drama workshops and creative writing.
"It will help our children and young people consider this complex and appalling period of history and its implications for the world. I hope teachers and pupils find the pack stimulating, thought provoking and challenging.
"We all want to live in a society which is free from prejudice and discrimination. That's why we must continue to do all we can to foster respect for different cultures and allow people to live lives free from fear and persecution."
The Executive supports Scottish Holocaust Memorial Day events and Holocaust Memorial education as part of its continuing commitment to oppose discrimination on the grounds of religion, race, disability, sexual orientation or gender.
The teaching pack was produced by Reeling and Writhing, a Glasgow based drama company. It is based on the production and performance of the White Lament play by school pupils from across East Renfrewshire at Holocaust Memorial Day 2004.
Further information about South Lanarkshire Council's Holocaust Memorial Day events is available online at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk