South Florida Jews Mark 75 Years of Israel
In Palm Beach County, Florida, the Jewish community is coming together to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the state of Israel in 1948. To mark this milestone, the Hadassah Florida Atlantic Region organized a fair that showcases important aspects of Jewish culture, such as food, education, and fundraising for the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Despite the recent outbreak of war in that region, the president of the chapter, Bobbi Prager, emphasized that the event had been planned beforehand and would not be canceled. According to Prager, throughout history, Jewish people have never shied away from difficult situations, including antisemitism and war. She stressed the importance of showing support for Israel and fellow Jews, declaring, “Now more than ever, we need to show our support for Israel and for our fellow Jews. People ask, do you have friends or family in Israel… the answer is yes, I have 7 million members of my family, in Israel.”
The state of Israel officially declared its independence on May 14, 1948. To honor this historic moment, the celebration fair took place at the South Civic Center, located west of Delray Beach. This event served as a platform for the Jewish community to come together, celebrate their heritage, and demonstrate solidarity with Israel.
Hadassah, an organization that brings women together to effect change and advocate for critical issues such as ensuring Israel’s security, combating antisemitism, and promoting women’s health, played a significant role in organizing the event. With nearly 300,000 members, Hadassah is committed to making a positive impact on society. In addition to their advocacy efforts, the organization operates two hospitals in Jerusalem, further highlighting their dedication to improving healthcare and well-being.
As the Jewish community in south Florida commemorates the 75th anniversary of Israel’s founding, their celebration serves as a reminder of the resilience and unity that has characterized Jewish history. Despite the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, this event demonstrates the unwavering support and commitment of the Jewish community towards Israel and their fellow Jews. By coming together and showcasing their culture, the community not only celebrates their heritage but also raises awareness and funds for those affected by the current war. Through such initiatives, the Jewish community reaffirms their determination to overcome adversity and stand united in the face of challenges.
