In the middle of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, the Town of Innisfil sends a beacon of solidarity to those affected, assuring them that they are not isolated in their struggle.
A prayer vigil was convened at Town Hall on Monday evening, orchestrated by Chabad Innisfil, and graced by the presence of the town’s mayor and council members. Rabbi Zev Kaplan expressed the gravity of the situation amidst this relentless assault against the Jewish community, stating, “This violence is more than an attack on Israel. It is an attack on all Jewish people, a sinister echo of atrocities borne by this community in its history.”
Notable attendees of the vigil extended beyond Rabbi Kaplan, attracting Innisfil Mayor Lynn Dolin, South Simcoe Police Chief John Van Dyke, and the local Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) and Environment Minister Andrea Khanjin, who also happens to form part of the local Jewish community. Khanjin emphasized the need for unity and hope amidst adversity declaring, “In these tumultuous times, our role as individuals and as a community is to stand by each other, to show the world our resilience and to fiercely advocate against anti-Semitism.”
Lana Barkan, a staff member from Khanjin’s constituency and a Jewish emigrant from Israel 31 years ago, gave a personal testimony of the situation’s profound impact on her family and herself. Her concern for her family, still residing in Israel, remains palpable, as every unexpected call or message brings with it the prospect of dreadful news.
Providing solace during the vigil, Edi Shimonov, a Toronto-based musician and friend of the local Rabbi, rendered heart-tugging music. It was indeed a courageous act as Shimonov himself has suffered the loss of multiple loved ones to the ongoing war. The musician echoed the sentiments of many, stating the hardship experienced by those trying to lead normal lives even as the conflict surges on.
Rabbi Kaplan reiterated the necessity of unity and prayer during these testing times, thereby underlining the importance of gatherings like this one. “Summoning the courage to stand up against such atrocities, to manifest solidarity, reflection, and communal prayer are not mere options, but moral obligations,” he said.
