Communities Across UK, Vermont Honor Lives Lost Five Years Since Pandemic

As the world marks five years since the COVID-19 pandemic was declared, various communities in the U.S. and the U.K. are holding events to reflect on the challenges faced and to honor those lost. In Vermont, state officials are looking back at the early days of the pandemic when a state of emergency was declared, emphasizing the progress made since then. In Nottingham, a minute's silence and memorial activities are planned to remember over 5,000 lives lost in the city, highlighting the importance of reflection and community support. Similarly, Kentucky's state Capitol held a ceremony featuring bell chimes and speeches to commemorate over 20,450 lives lost in the state, reinforcing the sentiments of compassion and community solidarity. Colchester has unveiled a permanent memorial and is planning further tributes, while Carmarthenshire County will illuminate buildings in yellow and encourage residents to participate in a national minute of silence. These observances serve as a reminder of the resilience and unity shown during a profoundly difficult time.