Remembering the 72 Lives Lost and Paying Homage to the Resilient Community

14 June 2023 marks the sixth anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire, one of the most catastrophic fire events in recent British history. In the early hours of 14th June 2017, a fire engulfed the 24-storey Grenfell Tower in West London, taking 72 innocent lives. As the nation recalls this tragic event, a host of tributes have emerged across the country to honour those lost and support the survivors and the wider community.

Memorial Commission Honours the Lost through Art

Celebrating the Healing Power of Art and Community

The Grenfell Tower Memorial Commission has released a poignant film on this day to commemorate the lives lost. The film features several local artists and community representatives who speak passionately about the therapeutic and reflective power of art and nature in the healing process.

Community representatives of the Memorial Commission said: “Six years on, the pain caused by the tragedy at Grenfell Tower remains difficult to bear for those of us most deeply affected. We are here to create a memorial that our community has been at the forefront of, to remember and to honour the loved ones who can no longer be with us.”

The co-chairs of the Memorial Commission, Thelma Stober and Lord Paul Boateng, echoed this sentiment, expressing their commitment to creating a memorial that: “Reflects the voices and needs of this incredible community.”

Mayor of London’s Statement

Demanding Justice and a Safer London

In a heartfelt statement, the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said: “The Grenfell Tower fire was a devastating tragedy and its impact was felt across our nation. On this sixth anniversary we pause to remember the 72 lives tragically cut short.” The mayor also stressed the importance of securing justice for those affected and ensuring that such a disaster never happens again.

‘A Crime Caused by Deregulation’

FBU Demands Accountability and Preventing Recurrence

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has declared its unwavering support for the Grenfell community, promising to stand “shoulder to shoulder” in their fight for justice. In a recent statement, Matt Wrack, the FBU general secretary, emphasised that the Grenfell fire was a result of systemic failure and a lack of accountability, pledging the union’s ongoing commitment to securing justice and preventing a similar tragedy in the future.

London Fire Brigade Commemorates Grenfell

Promising Improvements and Reflecting on the Tragedy

The London Fire Brigade also marked the occasion with a minute’s silence. London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe stated: “On this solemn day we will come together to reflect upon the sixth anniversary since the Grenfell Tower fire. It’s a day to remember the 72 people who lost their lives that night.” He reiterated the brigade’s dedication to improving their service and ensuring such a tragedy is never repeated.

As the UK remembers this devastating event, these tributes and pledges serve as a stark reminder of the continuing work needed to ensure safety and justice, while providing comfort and solidarity to a community still in mourning.