Wellington Regional Jewish Council

Press Release

Wednesday 7 May 2008

Wellington Palestine Group's distorted demonstration

The Wellington Palestine Group has distorted the purpose of this evening's Yom Hazikaron service at the Wellington Progressive Jewish Congregation's synagogue, said Eitan Grossman, organiser of the service.

Yom Hazikaron (Memorial Day) is the Israeli and Jewish equivalent of New Zealand's Anzac Day. It is remembrance day for those who fell in the struggle for the establishment of the State of Israel and in its defence.

"We remember also those who were victims of terrorism," Mr Grossman said. "Many in the Wellington Jewish community have family or friends who were killed in the conflicts so that the State of Israel can exist as a Jewish state. Yom Hazikaron is when we remember them."

The service will include a special yizkor (remembrance) prayer and the mourner's Kaddish.

ENDS