Burton Hazara Society Statement on East Staffordshire Borough Council’s Recognition of the Hazara Genocide
The Burton Hazara Society extends its heartfelt gratitude to East Staffordshire Borough Council for its historic and unanimous decision on 17th February 2025 to officially recognise the Hazara genocide of 1891–1893 and to condemn the ongoing atrocities committed against the Hazara people by the Taliban. This recognition is more than just an acknowledgment of the past; it is a powerful statement of solidarity with a community that has endured decades of persecution and suffering.
We express our deepest appreciation to Councillor Syed Hussain for his leadership in proposing the motion and to Councillor Paul Walker for seconding it. Their commitment to truth and justice has been instrumental in bringing this issue to the forefront, ensuring that the voices of the Hazara people are heard and their history acknowledged.
We also extend special gratitude to Madam Mayor Shelagh McKernan and the councillors for their invaluable support in making this recognition possible. Their dedication to justice and human rights reflects the values of compassion, fairness, and solidarity that define our society.
As members of the Hazara community, the Chairman of the Burton Hazara Society Mr Omid Jafari and the Secretary Mr Zia Zafari sat in the council chamber, witnessing this landmark decision, they were reminded that their struggles and sacrifices are not forgotten. By formally recognising this dark chapter in history, East Staffordshire Borough Council has taken a bold and compassionate stand against genocide denial and historical amnesia. This resolution not only honours the memory of those who perished but also reinforces the importance of preventing such atrocities in the future.
We hope that this courageous step by East Staffordshire Borough Council will inspire other local authorities, institutions, and governments to follow suit. Recognising past genocides is not just an act of remembrance-it is a call to action to challenge persecution wherever it exists and to uphold the principles of human dignity and justice.
Our sincere thanks also go to the activists, advocates, and supporting organisations who played a role in this initiative. Their unwavering dedication to truth and justice has made this recognition possible.
The Burton Hazara Society remains committed to advancing the cause of justice for the Hazara people. We will continue to work towards greater awareness, recognition, and meaningful action to ensure that history is remembered, the truth is upheld, and no community suffers in silence.