The Council is supporting the National Day of Reflection on Tuesday 23 March 2021 - the anniversary of the first UK Covid-19 Lockdown. The aim of the day, being led by Marie Curie and supported by UK and Scottish Governments, is to reflect on our collective loss, support those who've been bereaved, and hope for a brighter future.
Joint Council Leader Andrew Polson explained, “When we went in to that first lockdown on 23 March last year, no-one had any idea that one year on we would have seen so many lives lost and still be facing stay at home restrictions as a result of this devastating pandemic. We will be recognising this significant national day of reflection right across the Council, inviting our employees to observe the minute of silence at noon.
“We are also being invited to connect with anyone we know who is experiencing bereavement as a result of Covid-19 or simply struggling with the impact of the pandemic on our lives. We should also acknowledge the more hopeful future with the roll-out of the mass vaccination programme and community testing and the lifting of restrictions in the coming weeks and months.”
In the last year, hundreds of thousands of people have died and millions have been bereaved. Behind the statistics and whatever the cause, every death has been devastating for the people left behind.
Joint Council Leader Vaughan Moody added, “Public buildings and landmarks across the UK will light up yellow as part of the Day of Reflection and in East Dunbartonshire, we will be lighting up Bearsden Community Hub, Milngavie Town Hall and the William Patrick Library/Kirkintilloch Community Hub building.
“The impact of Covid-19 has been unprecedented and after the challenging year we have experienced it is only right to pause and reflect. In addition to the minute of silence at noon, there is a further opportunity to reflect at home at 8pm and light a candle or light to those who have lost their lives.”
There are other suggestions on how individuals and communities can get involved on the Marie Curie website such as putting a poster in your window or sharing on social media using #DayofReflection.
The Council will share its approach with local communities on social media, sharing photos of our local landmarks as they are bathed in yellow light in recognition of the one-year milestone.
Follow us on Twitter @EDCouncil or like us at facebook