Liverpool Remembers: City Unites to Honour 36th Anniversary of the Hillsborough Disaster
On 15 April, Liverpool will once again pause in solemn tribute, marking the 36th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster—a tragedy that irrevocably shaped both the city and English football. As the city falls silent at 3.06pm, the exact moment the fateful FA Cup semi-final was halted in 1989, Liverpool unites not only in remembrance but in a display of enduring solidarity, compassion, and resilience.
Liverpool's Premier League home fixture against West Ham coincides poignantly with the anniversary. In his matchday programme notes, head coach Arne Slot addressed supporters directly, urging them to bring the same spirit seen in recent Merseyside derbies to Anfield's remaining matches. "The situation we are in with just seven games to go means it would make a big, big difference if we could have a derby-style atmosphere in all of our home matches," Slot emphasised. But the coach’s message went deeper, honouring the memory of the 97 men, women, and children who lost their lives as a result of the disaster. "This is a responsibility that everyone at the club takes extremely seriously... We will always stand with you and we will never forget the 97 victims who were unlawfully killed."
The city-wide commemorations reflect a tradition upheld across decades—one that grows no weaker with time. A minute’s silence will be observed at Exchange Flags, behind Liverpool Town Hall, led by Lord Mayor Councillor Richard Kemp CBE, city leader Councillor Liam Robinson, and Chief Executive Andrew Lewis. The peal of a bell 97 times will echo the loss, followed by an instrumental rendition of "You'll Never Walk Alone"—an anthem that, for Liverpool, is loaded with meaning of unity and hope.
Public remembrance is further extended with Liverpool Town Hall opening from 2pm to 4pm for visitors to view the Freedom of the City plaque, inscribed with all 97 victims’ names. First awarded to the original 96 in 2016, it now includes Andrew Devine, who became the 97th victim in 2022. Flags will fly at half-mast across city buildings, while the Town Hall will be illuminated in red—casting a poignant glow into the evening.
The day resonates far beyond formalities. Images from the 35th anniversary, with supporters raising scarves and floral tributes at Anfield’s memorial, underline how their stories of loss, courage, and justice have become part of Liverpool’s collective DNA. Last year’s acts—a Town Hall banner declaring "To the victims of Hillsborough, you’ll never walk alone" and the laying of flowers—were not just symbolic gestures but promises renewed.
This annual remembrance once again calls forth the city's character—resolute in grief, tireless in seeking justice, and unwavering in loyalty. As Liverpool continues to chase footballing glory on the pitch, the memory of the 97 endures as a profound reminder of a past tragedy and the unity required to heal.
What do you think best honours the legacy of those lost at Hillsborough? Share your thoughts, memories, or tributes in the comments below and join the citywide conversation as Liverpool remembers, reflects, and looks forward together.
