The return of the last Israeli hostage, Ran Gvili, on the eve of International Holocaust Remembrance Day underscored a powerful and striking juxtaposition: Jewish history is ongoing, and Jewish identity must be actively protected. Memory and responsibility are inseparable.
Coinciding with this day of reflection, Israeli rights activist Rudy Rochman addressed a passionate crowd of over 250 people in Vancouver. Through a global lens, Rudy explored how Judaism has been shaped by Zionism, history, and current events, inviting participants to see themselves as active authors in the Jewish people’s unfolding story.
To introduce Rudy, our Emerson Fellow Rachel gave a moving speech about how her Jewish identity was deepened after an experience at school in the post-October 7th world, and how her involvement with StandWithUs Canada gave her a safe space and fact-based knowledge to fight back against antisemitism. As Rachel puts it, “refusing to talk to one another only deepens polarization,” a sentiment we witness all too often on campuses and beyond.
We are so grateful to the Dayhu Family Foundation for their generous sponsorship of the event, serving as critical partners in bringing Rudy and his voice to Vancouver.
Thank you to our promotional partners Allied Voiced for Israel, Hacker Communications, and JBiz.com, the Jewish Biz Network, as well as to our photographer, Herb.
Finally, we’d like to express our immense appreciation to Beth Israel Vancouver for their hospitality, partnership, and support in executing this important event.
