During the first week of May, the Jewish communities of seven South African cities will come together to mark Yom Hashoah – Holocaust Remembrance Day. On this day, Jews around the world remember the six million Jewish victims of Nazi tyranny – men, women and children singled out for mass extermination for no other reason than that they were Jews. Also remembered are the millions of other innocent people who died at the hands of the Nazi regime during World War II.
Two years ago, on the morning of the festival Simchat Torah, the Jewish world was shattered by a brutal attack. Today, as we stand on the cusp of Simchat Torah once more, our spirits lifted by the long-awaited release of those held captive. We extend our heartfelt thanks to America and the Arab nations, including our fellow African nation- Egypt, who have brought about this historical moment.
Our hearts will be forever scarred by the knowledge that not all of the hostages are returning alive. And our sympathies and unwavering love go out to the families of those hostages who will return only as mortal remains.
Opinion | Double standards, delegitimization: SAJBD rejects ‘moral blindness' accusations
News 24
David Saks
Tony Karon’s would-be take down of the SA Jewish Board of Deputies (‘Welcome to the club: SAJBD’s ‘Anti-Semite label reveals its own moral blindness’, 10 September)