On October 6, the South African Jewish community came together to reflect on the Hamas attack against Israel last year on October 7. Then, Hamas brutally killed, raped, burnt, murdered and kidnapped innocent Israeli civilians, leaving over 1 200 dead.
Our various community organisations united to put together a powerful memorial space, October 7 Square, in which we could express the day’s meaning and impact through our eyes. The exhibition was open to the public from 12h00 to 19h00 and concluded with a vigil from the youth movement. The “square” was well-attended and appreciated by the community.
At 17h00, a group of anti-Israel protesters gathered outside the square, shouting slogans and tearing down banners. The Jewish community members, in turn, also sang songs at the square. The situation was contained by security and there were no incidents. The anti-Israel group dispersed at 18h00, and the vigil continued as planned, and with poignant meaning.
The South African Jewish community stands as proud South Africans, proud Jews and proud Zionists.
