Identity
No matter Saturday’s result, we’ll keep holding our heads high as proud Jewish Australians.
As proud Jewish Australians, our calendar in the last few weeks gives a fairly accurate picture of who we are.
Fresh from celebrating Pesach, one of the most important Jewish festivals and one that gives historical grounding to our faith and identity, last week we solemnly marked Yom Hashoah.
As our cherished survivors lit candles in memory of the six million Jews murdered in the Holocaust, we were reminded of both the hardships we have suffered to maintain our identity and the strength of our people to not only endure, but to prosper despite what befell us.
A few days later, as patriotic Australians, we marked Anzac Day. Our community’s outsized contribution to our home country includes serving in its armed forces alongside our fellow Australians. This contribution is best exemplified by general Sir John Monash, one of Australia’s greatest ever soldiers.
Anzac Day also provides an opportunity to remember the Australian officers who bravely helped to liberate Ottoman Palestine, paving the way for the eventual establishment of the State of Israel.
And the rebirth of the Jewish homeland in its ancient lands was and continues to be a miracle, but one that has a price. On Tuesday night, at Yom Hazikaron ceremonies, we remembered that price, paying tribute to both the Israeli soldiers who have fought and fallen to keep our brethren safe and the victims of terror taken away too soon. They too are a part of the story of the Jewish people worldwide.
Today (Thursday), after three solemn remembrances, it is time to celebrate. This Yom Ha’atzmaut we mark the 77th anniversary of the founding of Israel. We marvel at the modern nation that has sprouted in the place where our ancient ties run deep. And we hope, as always, that a day will come when she will know peace.
Finally, this Saturday, as Australians we will participate in the democratic process of choosing our representatives. We do so as a small but integral part of our nation’s fabric. Jews will proudly serve in the Parliament that is elected.
All of the above blends seamlessly into our identity. And no matter the election result on Saturday, as proud Jewish Australians, we will continue to hold our heads up high.
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