Thousands gathered Sunday evening at Sydney's Bondi Beach for a national Day of Reflection ceremony
By Bernie,
Thousands gathered Sunday evening at Sydney's Bondi Beach for a national Day of Reflection ceremony, marking one week since the mass shooting at a Jewish Hanukkah celebration that killed 15 people. The ceremony was held under heavy police security and drew an estimated 10,000-15,000 attendees.
A minute of silence was observed at 18:47, the exact time the attack began. Images of the victims were displayed as candles were lit and prayers were recited. Political leaders, Jewish community figures, survivors, and families of the victims attended.
David Ossip, president of the New South Wales Jewish Board of Deputies, told the crowd: "This has to be the nadir of antisemitism in our country. This has to be the moment when light starts to eclipse the darkness." He added that the Jewish community was "unbreakable."
Executive Council of Australian Jewry co-chief Alex Ryvchin said: "We will not hide who we are. We will not live in fear." New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said: "With humility, I acknowledge the government's highest duty is to protect its citizens - and we did not do that one week ago."
In Jerusalem, President Isaac Herzog addressed a parallel memorial ceremony, sending a message of solidarity to Australian Jewry. "Tragically this year, instead of lighting the first candle, our sisters and brothers ran for cover," Herzog said. He added: "The rise in Jew-hatred across the world is a global emergency. The battle against antisemitism must be everyone's battle."
Australians nationwide were asked to light candles and pause in silence, while flags flew at half-staff and government buildings were illuminated in yellow.
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