Last night we were privileged to organize and hold a memorial service to remember the dead and to honor those who have fallen in battle so their loved ones can life in peace and safety.
A board member of the Holocaust Centre took part, and the President of the Canterbury Hebrew Congregation thanked us and gave us her approval.
Since the atrocities of October 7, the West after initially supporting Israel and abhoring the cruelty and barbarity of that day, quickly turned on Israel. The horror of war and Hamas’ clever propaganda campaign did its job.
On the other hand, another generation of Israelis have responded with courage, professionalism and boldness and proven to the world that they are capable of protecting their loved ones.
What has also emerged is a worldwide community of people who have stood up for Israel, who have called out the untruths that its enemies would so want the world to believe, who have stood in vigils every week, rain or shine.
The community has found its voice in prominent figures such as Juliet Moses, David Cumin, Sean Plunket, Bryce Turner, Nigel Woodley, Murray Douglas, Natasha Hausdorff, Melanie Phillips, Caroline Glick, Dr Phil, Hillel Neuer… too many to name here.
From Washington DC, to London, to Melbourne, to NZ towns and cities like Auckland, Wellington, Tauranga, Christchurch, Palmerston North, Invercargill, people who are salt of the earth, common everyday people are coming out on the streets and standing up.
When we marched in Christchurch to support Israel, people on the side of the street began to clap. It felt like the Tour de France. The majority of NZers are sensible and they can recognize evil when they see it.
Many thanks to the everyone who helped with the event last night. It was a grievous, poignant but also heartwarming evening. Unfortunately, for security reasons, we can’t name you but your contributions made the evening so special.
A member of the Jewish community messaged us this morning:
It was a healing evening. Thank you. There is hope.
I enjoyed being able to support the Israeli people and commemorate the 7th October anniversary with them. It was a lovely meeting and I felt part of the community of supporters there. Thank you for arranging it NZ for Israel.
You’re welcome. May your support for Israel bring them closer to living in peace.