Islington comes together to mark National Day of Reflection

The National Day of Reflection, which is led by the charity Marie Curie, marks the second anniversary of the beginning of lockdown restrictions in the UK, and provides an opportunity for people to remember those that have tragically passed away during the pandemic. 

Today, members of the public, Islington councillors, and Reverend James Hughesdon, Vicar of St Mary’s Church on Upper Street, will gather together to pause for a minute’s silence and reflection outside Islington Town Hall.

In memory of the 418 people in the Islington community that have lost their lives during the pandemic, Islington has also planted three Gardens of Reflection – at Highbury Quadrant, Holly Park, and Popham Estate. Events are being held this afternoon at each of the Gardens of Reflection, to give local people the opportunity to pause for a moment to heal and reflect on the past two years. 

In a joint statement, Cllr Sue Lukes, Islington Council’s Executive Member for Community Safety, and Cllr Una O’Halloran, Islington Council’s Executive Member for Community Development, said: “Over the past two years, Covid-19 has had a huge and devastating impact on all of our lives.  

“Today, on the second National Day of Reflection, Islington is coming together to connect, reflect, and remember the family, friends, colleagues and other loved ones that we have lost.  

“We encourage residents across our borough to pause to reflect on the sacrifices, tragedy and countless acts of kindness we’ve seen in our borough over the past two years - whether that be in one our Gardens of Reflection, with friends or loved ones, or at home.  

“Although Covid-19 restrictions are easing, it’s vital that we remember that the pandemic is still going and is affecting people across Islington. Local people’s extraordinary efforts have helped save lives and keep communities safe during Covid-19, and we’d urge you to continue to do all you can to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.”  

Although many Covid-19 restrictions have now eased and life is starting to return to normal for some, many people who have lost family, friends, neighbours, or colleagues are still dealing with the trauma of grief. The council’s website provides details of the valuable support available for those experiencing bereavement.  

There are plenty of ways that people in Islington can keep themselves and others safe from Covid-19, including getting the vaccine, taking lateral flow tests before mixing with others, and continuing to wear face covering on public transport or in any crowded space. There’s more valuable advice on how you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe on the council’s Covid-19 webpage. 

Notes to editors 

Further information on how you can take part in National Day of Reflection is available on Marie Curie’s website.  

The minute's silences at Islington Gardens of Reflection are taking place at Highbury Quadrant at 2pm, Holly Park at 4pm, and Popham Estate at 6pm. The event outside Islington Town Hall begins at 11.45am.