In a strong demonstration of civic partnership and solidarity with the Jewish community, the Virginia Beach City Council issued an official resolution on January 20 proclaiming January 27, 2026 as International Holocaust Remembrance Day in the City of Virginia Beach. The resolution recognized United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, its Jewish Community Relations Council, and its Holocaust Commission for their leadership in Holocaust education and their ongoing work to counter antisemitism across Hampton Roads.
Accepting the honor on behalf of the community were Mona Flax, UJFT president; Betty Ann Levin, UJFT executive vice president and CEO; Hunter Thomas, director of Arts + Ideas; and Elka Mednick, Holocaust Commission director.
The proclamation marked the 81st anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau and reaffirmed the city’s commitment to remembrance, historical truth, and combating hate in all forms. Council members emphasized the importance of public institutions partnering with community organizations, such as UJFT, which promote acceptance, strengthen democratic values, and confront rising antisemitism with education and action.
The resolution highlighted the Holocaust Commission’s extensive programming, including educator resources, the Elie Wiesel Writing and Visual Arts Competition, and public commemorations for both International Holocaust Remembrance Day and Yom HaShoah. It also acknowledged To Life: Holocaust Stories of Hampton Roads Survivors, Liberators, and Rescuers as a historical resource.
The City Council urged all residents to honor the victims of the Holocaust, learn its lessons, and join in the shared responsibility of building a more compassionate and inclusive community.