First celebration of Jerusalem day took place in Canadian Parliament

• Published date: 02 June 2023
• Publication title: Jerusalem Post, The: Web Edition Articles (Israel)

Jerusalem Day, also known as Yom Yerushalayim, is an Israeli national holiday that commemorates the "reunification" of East Jerusalem with West Jerusalem following the Six-Day War of 1967. It is celebrated annually on 28 Iyar on the Hebrew calendar and is marked officially throughout Israel with state ceremonies and memorial services

A notable celebration that marks the holiday is a flag-flying parade known as the Dance of Flags. The Chief Rabbinate of Israel declared Jerusalem Day to be a minor religious holiday, as it marks the regaining for Jewish people of access to the Western Wall.

Israeli-Canadian relations

Chair of the caucus, MP Dr. Leslyn Lewis, spoke about the importance of the ties between Canada and Israel. "Canada has a long and rich history of supporting and standing up for Israel. At a time when antisemitism is on the rise, it is critical that Canadian parliamentarians, faith and Jewish community leaders stand together in their steadfast support of Israel. This year marks 75 years of Israeli independence and another year of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel."

"Israel is a symbol of freedom, resilience and hope to millions who wish to see the peaceful coexistence of all peoples in Israel. On this 75th anniversary, Canadians join in celebration of this legacy of freedom, hope and peace" said Lewis.

Israel's Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli highlighted the importance of multi-partisan structure of the caucus. "I look forward to celebrating Jerusalem Day in the Canadian Parliament with a broad range of political representatives. Through our diversity, we all share a common language in...