Jerusalem Zoo Launches Social Initiative in Memory of Slain Zookeeper

The Jerusalem Biblical Zoo has launched a new educational initiative, "The Social Tour," dedicated to the memory of Uriel Nuri, a zookeeper who tragically died after being attacked by a tiger during his work. The project aims to transform zoo spaces into learning environments focused on belonging, acceptance of others, social sensitivity, and preventing exclusion, ensuring no child feels alone.

Nuri's life story, marked by significant social ostracism during his youth, inspired the initiative. Despite facing hardship, he grew into a beloved animal caretaker and a social leader at the zoo. "The main message for us is a light of hope. Uriel went through many humiliations and social difficulties as a child and teenager, but it is important for us that people know that in the end, they saw who he really was and accepted him," said Ilanit Nuri, Uriel's mother.

The "Social Tour" is set to operate in five zoos across Israel. It uses the animal kingdom as a starting point for discussions about creating a society that embraces diversity, allows everyone to find their place, and leaves no one behind. The initiative was launched at the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo during a special conference in Nuri's memory, a collaboration between his family, the zoo, and the Kanfei Dror association.

Orit Raz, CEO of Kanfei Dror, described the program as a learning journey designed to foster belonging and visibility and prevent social suffering. "In Uriel, there is great pain, but there is also a message that every child who experiences rejection, boycott, or loneliness needs to hear: what you are going through now does not have to define who you will be," Raz stated. The initiative seeks to channel Nuri's sensitivity and love by using the animal world to discuss social issues with children and youth.