Summer - Flipbook - Page 5
Following the horrific attacks on October 7th, one of the moments that was seared into my soul were the messages
of gratitude from the Israelis, who serve as shlichim (Israeli emissaries) for the Long Island Jewish community. Every
time we held a pro-Israel rally in Port Washington, the Israeli shlichim showed up, and they told us, again and again,
that they were strengthened and overwhelmed by the love and support of the Long Island Jewish community. These
experiences helped me understand the core meaning of the Celebrate Israel Day Parade. The parade is not just a
time to meet up with friends, and it’s not just another activity to do on a Sunday morning; rather, it is an incredible
opportunity for the Jewish community of New York to gather, support one another, and publicly declare our love and
support for Israel. May this year’s Celebrate Israel Day Parade give strength to the Jews of New York, the Jews of the
diaspora, and our brothers and sisters in Israel. May it also provide all of us with HaTikvah – The Hope – that through
our unity, better days will come for Israel and the Middle East. May there be peace speedily in our days.
And let us say: Amen.
Israel Day on Fifth (formerly the Salute to Israel Parade and then the Celebrate Israel Parade)
tbiport.org
SIVAN/TAMUZ 5785
