Peace Gardens | 11 July 2025 | Civic Ceremony with Sheffield City Council
DiverseCity Development Trust was honoured to collaborate with Sheffield City Council in delivering a powerful and moving Civic Commemoration to mark the 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide, held at the Peace Gardens on Friday, 11 July 2025.
This significant public event brought together civic leaders, faith representatives, and local communities to reflect on one of the darkest chapters in recent European history — and to reaffirm a shared commitment to peace, inclusion, and unity.
Commemoration Highlights
The ceremony opened with reflections from Philip Gregory, Faith Lead at Sheffield City Council, followed by civic addresses from the Lord Mayor of Sheffield and the Deputy Leader of the Council.
Faith and community voices brought deep insight and solidarity to the gathering, with contributions from:
Shahida Siddique, CEO, DiverseCity Development Trust
Patsy Cunningham, Seven Hills Shul
Dean Justin Dodd, Sheffield Cathedral
Ameena Blake, Chaplain, University of Sheffield
A solemn moment of silence was observed, led by Dean Justin Dodd, before final remarks were shared by Philip Gregory.
Remembering Yesterday, Acting Today
The national theme for 2025, “Remember Yesterday, Act Today”, served as a poignant reminder that remembrance must lead to collective action — challenging hate, embracing truth, and building more compassionate communities.
“We do not honour the victims of Srebrenica by silence or sentiment,” said Shahida Siddique, CEO of DiverseCity.
“We honour them by building communities rooted in dignity, compassion, and truth — even when it’s hard. Especially when it’s hard.”A Shared Civic Duty
DiverseCity extends heartfelt thanks to Sheffield City Council for their leadership, and to all speakers, partners, and attendees who contributed to a meaningful civic moment.
As an organisation rooted in justice, dignity, and equity, DiverseCity will continue to honour the memory of Srebrenica through ongoing community education, interfaith dialogue, and a firm commitment to truth and inclusion.