BY SHELLEY TROPE-FRIEDMAN, President of WIZO South Africa
The Women’s International Zionist Organisation of South Africa (WIZO SA) held our 37th National Conference on Zoom on Sunday, 10 November. We were privileged to have informative speakers from Israel and South Africa who brought unique messages to WIZO SA.
Chief Rabbi Dr. Warren Goldstein spoke with great conviction about the realities of 7 October. He said that Israel has a Jewish army and a sovereign Jewish government and this sends a message that Jews cannot be attacked without consequence or accountability. He stated that Israel has fought on multiple fronts, including military, political and social activism. He complimented us by saying that WIZO is at the forefront of social welfare and does wonderful work to promote Zionism!
Anat Vidor, President of World WIZO, explained that WIZO was at the civil forefront of the war efforts post-October 7 when they opened daycare centres, ensured soldiers had meals, and gave housing to evacuees. She commended WIZO SA for being a member of this Zionistic movement that is active on the ground and impactful in its fight for the citizens of Israel.
Keynote speaker Nitsana Darshan-Leitner, President and Founder of Shurat HaDin which is at the forefront of fighting terrorism and safeguarding Jewish rights through means of law, described the attacks of October 7, saying that Shurat HaDin was called to join the war efforts by going after Hamas funding. They filed a lawsuit on behalf of 500 victims of October 7 against the Palestinian Authority. She gave examples of their work which includes suing the Red Cross, who abandoned the hostages, and personnel of UNRWA, who kidnapped people and took dead bodies to Gaza. She said: “Now we have a way to fight back. We have our soldiers. We have the Jewish community that supports the Jewish State. We are fighting back and, I promise you, we are going to win!”
A meaningful video was sent by Rowan Polovin, National Chairman of the South African Zionist Federation. He confirmed that the SAZF has great regard for the vital work that WIZO does in supporting the most vulnerable in Israel.
Thereafter I delivered the President’s report which gave an overview of WIZO SA’s activities, and I thanked the key people who have played a valuable role in our organisation.
Harry Rosmarin, Co-Treasurer of WIZO SA, gave a financial summary, emphasising the importance of fundraising. The Chairpersons of our societies then gave a synopsis of their fundraising activities.
The new Council for WIZO SA was announced and the outgoing Council were thanked for their years of dedicated service. I was honoured to be elected to continue as WIZO SA President.
Anita Friedman, Chairperson of World WIZO, concluded our successful conference with an interesting explanation of how World WIZO adapted its services to the needs of Israeli society in response to the war and further commended WIZO SA for our work.
We all stood for the Israeli and South African anthems after stating our prayer for the return of the hostages and the safety of our soldiers, and thanked all those who attended.
Am Yisrael Chai
Website: WIZO South Africa
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