King Charles III recently resumed his royal duties with a poignant visit to Scotland, following a family reunion at Sandringham. The visit not only marked his return but also underscored the significance of Holocaust remembrance as he prepares for an upcoming trip to Poland for the 80th anniversary of the Holocaust.
Upon his arrival in Scotland, King Charles met with Manfred Goldberg, a 94-year-old Holocaust survivor, and his wife, Shary. Their conversation centered around the importance of memory and commemoration. King Charles lit a candle in memory of those who lost their lives in the Holocaust and in recent genocides, reflecting his commitment to honoring their legacy.
In a statement, King Charles expressed the importance of remembrance, saying, "I hope that this will last a long time, keep the memory." His dedication to education about the Holocaust was further demonstrated when he hosted three organizations at Buckingham Palace to mark Holocaust Memorial Day. The event featured a short performance by Echo Eternal, emphasizing the role of art in memorialization.
One of the displays showcased candleholders created as part of the '80 Candles for 80 Years' project, symbolizing hope and remembrance. Another display introduced a digital education program that utilizes AI and virtual reality technology, allowing students to engage with Holocaust survivors and hear their stories firsthand. This innovative approach aims to foster understanding and ensure that the memories of those who suffered are not forgotten.
King Charles spent the Christmas period at his Norfolk estate, Sandringham, joined by several key members of the royal family on Christmas Day. Following the holiday, he and Queen Camilla traveled to Scotland before resuming royal commitments. He expressed his determination to participate in the commemoration service in Poland, stating, "I feel I must [go] for the 80th anniversary. It's so important."
Manfred Goldberg shared his harrowing experiences of surviving concentration camps, including Stutthof and enduring a death march. His meeting with King Charles not only highlighted the importance of personal testimonies but also reinforced the monarchy's role in addressing historical injustices.
