Global Mayors Light Candles in Jerusalem for Kristallnacht Victims
Translated & summarized from Behadrei Haredim by baba
Dozens of international mayors and municipal leaders convened in Jerusalem for the American Jewish Congress's 35th annual conference, marking the 88th anniversary of Kristallnacht. The event featured a memorial candle-lighting ceremony and discussions on combating antisemitism, with U.S. Ambassador urging mayors to witness Israel's reality firsthand. The conference aims to foster deeper connections and explore joint initiatives in technology, economics, and education.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Dozens of global mayors gathered in Jerusalem for the American Jewish Congress conference.
- The event commemorated the 88th anniversary of Kristallnacht and addressed rising antisemitism.
- U.S. Ambassador urged mayors to counter negative narratives about Israel.
- Daniel Rose highlighted the conference's goal of building trust and fostering joint initiatives.
- Mayors will explore Israeli innovations and discuss urban challenges during the conference.
Dozens of mayors and municipal leaders from around the world gathered in Jerusalem on Sunday for the opening of the 35th international conference of the American Jewish Congress. The conference, held on the 88th anniversary of Kristallnacht, a symbol of escalating persecution of European Jews before the Holocaust, began with a moving memorial candle-lighting ceremony for the victims of the Nazi pogrom. The event aimed to emphasize the responsibility of local leadership in combating rising antisemitism.
U.S. Ambassador to Israel the U.S. Ambassador to Israel delivered a strong speech directly addressing the mayors, stating, "Many crazy things are said about Israel around the world that are simply not true. Israel needs more people to come here, see the reality with their own eyes, and then go home and simply tell what they saw." the U.S. Ambassador to Israel, familiar with the local scene from his time as governor of Arkansas, highlighted the power of municipal leaders to effect practical and swift change. He sharply criticized boycott movements, saying, "Instead of the world simply thanking Israel for the technologies and innovations it provides, some countries seek to boycott it and impose sanctions. This is madness. What should be here is a true partnership."
Daniel Rose, President of the American Jewish Congress, outlined the conference's goals: "In the coming days, the mayors will experience innovation born out of necessity. This visit is an opportunity to build trust and personal connections that will last long after it ends. We are working to ensure they return to their countries with a deeper connection to Israel and an interest in joint initiatives, from adopting technologies to improve residents' lives to developing economic and educational partnerships."
During the conference, participants will be exposed to Israeli technological developments and innovations, meet with senior Israeli officials, and discuss solutions to modern urban challenges.