Learning, Listening, and Leading: A Powerful Message for Our Youth
It was an honour to hear President Isaac Herzog speak with Year 11s and 12s from the different Jewish day schools in Melbourne yesterday. Alongside an audience of 1500, our students gave us tremendous naches (pride) as they respectfully listened to the different speakers, and sang and waved their flags with an appreciation of the significant event of our two countries meeting.
Premier of Victoria, Jacinta Allen described how important this visit was in the aftermath of this country’s worst ever terror attack. She stressed how they “heard our warnings”, and “are committed to not forgetting what has happened”. She honoured Isaac Herzog in following the footsteps of his father President Chaim Herzog, who visited here in 1986, and described the bronze coin he was gifted from Australia with an engraved menorah and eucalyptus. The menorah symbolises the light which the Jewish community brings to Australia, and the eucalyptus tree symbolises the shelter and protection which Australia is committed to providing all Australians. It was also mentioned how eucalyptus trees have grown in Israel since the late 19th century, amongst the most planted trees in the country, symbolising the important partnership between the two countries.
Both Premier Allen and Head of Opposition, Jess Wilson, stressed the message to our youth that “no Jew should have to hide who they are” and affirmed our important place as part of the fabric of Australian life. Zero tolerance for antisemitism was the theme of the afternoon, acknowledging that it leads to erosion of society for all Australians. But the words from Herzog himself, greeting us all as “mishpacha” (family), “a single body animated by a single soul” were the most resounding. His words were comforting and demonstrated how whilst he and Michal came to comfort and “weep together” after Bondi, they “depart for Jerusalem inspired and energised” by our community’s strength.
The sight of so many police and CSG volunteers working so cohesively to ensure the event ran safely was extraordinary and unprecedented, in itself a milestone event. And so sad and absurd that such security measures are required today.
This morning at morning tefilla, Yr 12 student Louis Sellyn shared a drash on this week’s parasha:
“Mishpatim teaches us to be fair, honest, and kind. If someone causes damage, they must take responsibility. If someone is poor or vulnerable, we must protect them.”
Our tradition is simple, obligating everyone to take responsibility for others and help create a fair society.
Hearing Herzog reminded us of the importance of taking responsibility, protecting and being present for those in most need.
May this Shabbat bring more light and shelter beneath our eucalyptus.