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Chaverim – Friends,
During the last two weeks, we have experienced what many Jewish communal professionals and community volunteers refer to as the Season of Yoms. This time of the year is both solemn and joyful, as we mark Yom HaShoah, Yom HaZikaron, and Yom HaAtzmaut. As we move from one special day to another, we pause to reflect, remember, and honour some profound chapters of our shared history.
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On Yom HaShoah, in an event organized by the Shoah Committee of the Jeiwsh Federation of Ottawa, community members of all ages gathered to remember the six million Jews who perished in the Holocaust, lighting candles in their memory and vowing, once again, never again. We stood with survivors and their families, carrying their stories forward with dignity and strength. We explored the concept of art as remembrance. We also rededicated ourselves to the tasks of remembrance and action. As well, at the National Holocaust Monument, there was a very strong showing of allies and friends, as well as community, to honour the memories of those lives stolen from the world in the Holocaust, and recognition of the strength and resilience of our survivors. A particular focus this year was placed on the Jewish communities of Greece, as well as those righteous gentiles who risked their very lives to save their Jewish neighbours.
On Yom HaZikaron, at a moving ceremony organized by the Soloway JCC and the Embassy of Israel, we bowed our heads in memory of Israel’s fallen soldiers and victims of terror, recognizing their ultimate sacrifice in defence of our homeland and the Jewish people. We also reflected on the victims of October 7 and their families, holding hope the remaining hostages will be reunited with their loved ones very soon.
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And on Yom HaAtzmaut, we rose in celebration of Israel’s 77th Independence Day – a miracle of resilience, perseverance, and faith.
Yesterday, we proudly raised the Israeli flag, community and allies together, with strong support by diplomats, elected officials, and community leaders. We rejoiced in the modern miracle of Jewish sovereignty, while acknowledging the challenges that persist, and the unity that sustains us.
| | Photos thanks to Peter Waiser | | | | In an emotional moment for me, as I sang Hatikvah and watched the Israeli flag slowly and confidently rise on the flagpole, I witnessed a gust of wind unfurl the Israeli and Canadian flags in unison – a sign, I thought, of the gesher chai (the living bridge) and the partnership between our two countries. The day was well supported by Ottawa Police Service and City Hall Security and Corporate Affairs and took place without incident. The beautiful weather smiled on us, and we all experienced a moment of joy, hope, and resilience. | | |
The day wrapped up with the incredible energy of Jewish Ottawa at the Soloway JCC’s Yom Ha’Atzmaut Community Celebration, featuring a vibrant shuk (market), Israeli dancing, Krav Maga demonstrations, and plenty of family fun. What a fantastic way to end the day and the Yoms season!
I am grateful to our professional team and volunteer leaders, as well as all our community partners for their contributions in bringing our community and allies together. This time of the year is truly one of deep connection, heartfelt remembrance, and renewed commitment to our people, our heritage, our community, and our future.
Shabbat Shalom and Am Yisrael Chai!
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