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FSWC Delegation Caught Up in Excitement of Yom Ha'atzmaut
It is with joy and profound excitement that Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center (FSWC) celebrates Yom Ha'atzmaut to mark 70 years of Israeli independence. Celebrations are underway in Israel, with our delegation participating in events in Jerusalem marking this landmark anniversary. Throughout its existence, Israel has overcome threats and opposition that have challenged its way of life, yet the Jewish state remains a flourishing example of democracy whose drive for self-determination is an inspiration to the world.
Statement by the Prime Minister on Israel Independence Day
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued a statement today in celebration of Israel Independence Day. "Tonight at sundown, Israelis, Jewish communities, and others in Canada and around the world will celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of the State of Israel. In 1948, Canada was one of the first countries to formally recognize Israel. Seventy years later, Canada and Israel are united by democratic values and close people-to-people ties. Our two countries remain steadfast allies, close friends, and partners in many international organizations. Canada is proud to stand with Israel."
Holocaust education has never been more important than now. Support Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center's numerous educational programs that bring Holocaust education to schools across Ontario and ensure today's youth and future generations never forget.
Israel Honours 23,646 Fallen Soldiers and 3,134 Terror Victims on Memorial Day
Since beginning commemorations at sundown yesterday, millions of Israelis have paid respects at the gravesides of fallen soldiers and terror victims on Yom Hazikaron - Israel Memorial Day. Official ceremonies were held at the country's 52 official military cemeteries and hundreds of other smaller military sections in civilian cemeteries.
40 UN Ambassadors Visit Israel as Part of Largest-Ever Delegation
One-fifth of all UN ambassadors are in Israel as part of the largest delegation ever to participate in this trip - growing from nine participants in 2016, to 14 in 2017, and to 40 this year. Led by Israeli Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon, the purpose of the trip is to provide a first-hand look at the challenges the country faces and emphasize the Jewish people's link to Jerusalem, as the ambassadors are often called upon to vote on Israel-related issues at the UN.
EU Adopts Bill to Prevent Hateful Content in Palestinian Schools
The Parliament of the European Union passed a bill today that aims to ensure all EU aid transferred to the Palestinian Authority (PA) for educational programs is not being used to promote hate, and instead promotes "values such as freedom, tolerance, and non-discrimination." With this new legislation, Palestinian textbooks - which continue to glorify "martyrs", promote radical Islamism and not recognize the existence of Israel - will be examined to ensure that EU funds go toward education that meets EU and UNESCO standards.
Labour Party MPs Criticize Leader for Failure to Tackle Antisemitism
UK Labour Party MPs spoke out against leader Jeremy Corbyn yesterday during a highly charged debate on antisemitism in parliament, criticizing him for his failure to tackle antisemitism within the party. Numerous MPs read out hate mail they had received from his supporters after condemning antisemitism. Another MP detailed the abuse she has faced for being Jewish in the party, stating, " I have never felt as nervous and frightened as I feel today at being a Jew. It feels that my party has given permission for antisemitism to go unchallenged."
Police Investigating Antisemitic Attack Against Jewish Man in Berlin
Police are investigating after a young Jewish man wearing a kippah was attacked in Berlin in an apparent antisemitic attack. The victim, who is 21 years old and has been identified by German media as being an Israeli, filmed the attack on his cell phone. The assailant is seen lashing the Jewish man with his belt and saying the Arabic word for Jew, "Yahudi."
From the Arab World
Israeli security officials arrested a Palestinian at a checkpoint in northern West Bank today after a "powerful explosive device" was discovered stashed in his truck. Earlier today, police also arrested a Palestinian man at the Qalandiya checkpoint north of Jerusalem after a knife was uncovered on him. In his initial questioning, the Gaza resident admitted he planned to carry out a stabbing attack.
FSWC Board of Directors Member Molly Shoichet Invites You to Spirit of Hope
Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center Board of Directors member Molly Shoichet - who is particularly passionate about FSWC's work in addressing issues like racism and antisemitism - will be joining hundreds of fellow community members at the upcoming Spirit of Hope Benefit. Don't miss your chance to be part of the event too!
To register or for more information, contact Tracey at tsteyn@fswc.ca or 416-864-9735 ext. 21.
Register for Spirit of Hope 2018
FSWC Wants to Hear from You
Passionate about an issue in the news or your community? Does it align with FSWC's mandate? Then we want to hear from you! FSWC is inviting you to submit reflections on issues that matter to you and the community. While we won't be publishing anything just yet, we will be taking all submissions into consideration for future projects. Submit reflections to aborisovsky@fswc.ca.
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