The Cape Town Jewish community gathered in a deeply moving ceremony to commemorate the tragic events of October 7th, marking one year since the devastating Hamas attack on Israeli civilians and others. The South African Zionist Federation Cape Council (SAZFCC), Cape South African Jewish Board of Deputies (Cape SAJBD), and the Jewish youth movements (Bnei Akiva, Habonim, Netzer, Diller and BBYO) jointly organised this solemn occasion, with the youth movements taking centre stage to run proceedings. Together, the community paid tribute to the innocent lives lost and the ongoing suffering experienced by the families of hostages still held captive in Gaza.
Over the past twelve months, the Jewish community the world over has endured unimaginable sorrow, mourning the victims of the heinous attack. It has also been a time of continuous prayer and hope, as the community remains steadfast in calling for the safe return of those taken hostage. Despite this immense pain, the event served as testament to the community’s resilience and unwavering solidarity with Israel.
T
he emotional programme featured heartfelt speeches from key community leaders, including SAZF CC Chairman, David Cohen, and Cape SAJBD Chair, Adrienne Jacobson, who emphasised the importance of unity in the face of adversity. Both speakers reflected on the enduring connection between Cape Town’s Jewish community and the Jewish State, highlighting how this bond has provided strength during the darkest times. Adrienne highlighted that “the Jewish reality post-October 7th is way more powerful and uplifting…We have seen extraordinary acts of heroism, of strength and power, remarkable acts of bravery and courage from ordinary citizens who have had to access strength and resilience they didn’t know they had.”
As the community continues to honour the memory of those lost, the focus remains on the future. Prayers for the safe return of the hostages continue to be at the forefront of communal gatherings, ensuring that hope prevails, even amid the sorrow. This commemoration, though painful, reaffirmed Cape Town Jewish community’s strength, pride, and enduring support for Israel.
The keynote speaker, Liora Ben Tsur, whose South African-born mother was murdered, delivered a moving video message. Many of her family who live in Cape Town were in the audience to hear her tragic account of the 7th of October.
The event included poignant prayers, recitations of poems, and evocative musical performances that touched the hearts of those in attendance. Songs of hope and remembrance echoed through the gathering, uniting the community in shared grief and a collective determination to stand by Israel. The installations and exhibitions set up were both powerful and meaningful. The iconic 101 yellow chairs – a replica of the installation at Hostage Square in Tel Aviv installed against the backdrop of the Gardens Shul – set the scene for the commemoration ceremony.
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