On February 11, 2025, the Rohingya Centre of United Kingdom (RCUK) had the honour of participating in the public consultation for the proposed Rohingya Memorial Stone in Bradford. This important initiative marks a significant milestone in the collective effort to commemorate the history, struggles, and resilience of the Rohingya nation. The memorial will serve as a powerful and lasting symbol, not only in the UK but beyond, ensuring that the experiences of the Rohingya people are acknowledged and remembered for generations to come.
Purpose of the Rohingya Memorial Stone
The Rohingya Memorial Stone will be the first of its kind in the United Kingdom, specifically designed to acknowledge the unimaginable suffering and enduring strength of the Rohingya community. This memorial will serve several vital purposes:
- Commemorating the victims of persecution and genocide, ensuring that their stories are never forgotten.
- Raising awareness of the continuing challenges faced by the Rohingya people, including forced displacement, statelessness, and human rights violations.
- Symbolising the collective pursuit of justice, dignity, and respect for human rights, aligning with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights standards.
- Fostering solidarity among communities committed to standing with Rohingya refugees and displaced populations around the world.
The Rohingya Memorial Stone will stand as a testament to the resilience of the Rohingya people and a call to action for justice and human rights. “The Rohingya Memorial Stone is not just a symbol of remembrance, but a testament to our resilience and our ongoing fight for justice. This memorial will ensure that the struggles of our people are never forgotten, and that future generations continue to carry our message of hope and dignity.” — Mohammed Amin, CEO, Rohingya Centre UK
Why Bradford?
Bradford has played an instrumental role in the resettlement of Rohingya refugees and remains home to one of the largest Rohingya populations in Europe. As the first city in the UK to welcome Rohingya refugees under the resettlement programme in 2008, Bradford has demonstrated unwavering compassion and leadership in supporting the Rohingya community.
It is in this context that Bradford, with its longstanding commitment to diversity and inclusivity, is a fitting location for this memorial. The Rohingya Centre UK (RCUK) deeply values the ongoing support of Bradford City Council and the broader community in creating a city that embraces refugees, upholds human dignity, and fosters a culture of solidarity. Bradford’s recognition as a City of Sanctuary and City of Culture further underscores its role as a beacon of hope for refugee populations, making it an ideal city to host this tribute to the Rohingya nation.
Acknowledgement of Key Stakeholders
We would like to express our sincere appreciation to all the organisations, leaders, and community members who have actively engaged in this consultation process. Their contributions reflect a collective commitment to ensuring that this memorial is a true reflection of the Rohingya community’s history and resilience. Special thanks to the following stakeholders for their participation:
- Bradford City of Sanctuary
- Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK
- Cllr Kamran Hussain, Neighbourhood & Community Safety Portfolio Holder
- Race Equality Network
- Rohingya Action North East
- Stronger Communities
- Local Rohingya community groups, activists, and members
Their invaluable involvement highlights the importance of a collaborative approach to this memorial, ensuring that it will be shaped by the diverse voices of the Rohingya community and broader supporters.
Next Steps & Community Engagement
The design, inscription, and symbolic elements of the memorial are currently being developed in line with an inclusive process that honours the aspirations of the Rohingya people. As this initiative progresses, we invite Rohingya community members, scholars, activists, and human rights advocates to continue contributing their insights, ensuring that this memorial remains a genuine reflection of the collective experience and the shared vision for a future where justice and dignity prevail.
We remain committed to ensuring that the memorial’s design and messaging adhere to the highest ethical standards, ensuring that the Rohingya people’s story is told with the respect and dignity it deserves.
We must never forget the suffering of the Rohingya people and that we must continue to advocate for their rights and dignity on the global stage. Together, through collaboration and continued engagement, we will ensure that the Rohingya people’s history is remembered and honoured, and that future generations are inspired by the resilience of those who have fought and continue to fight for justice.
Contact Information:
To provide input or get involved in the consultation process, please contact us at: info@rcuk.org.uk