Jewish community remembers Holocaust victims

The Jewish community gathered in remembrance of millions of Jews who died during the Holocaust.

The memorial, which took place at Westpark Cemetary on 12 April, was attended by learners from King David schools, a Holocaust survivor, Irene Klaas, who gave a talk, Israeli ambassador and members of the Jewish community.

National Chairman of the South African Jewish Board of Deputies, Shaun Zagnoev said the Holocaust is remembered by most Jews often due to it being a significant period in their history.

However, the Jewish community identifies certain periods of time to give the event special attention.

“Today it is called the Holocaust Remembrance Day, a specific period when the uprising occurred and this is a day which is recognised all over the world.

It’s a day we highlight as giving memory to all those who passed away during the holocaust. Judaism is all about memory and history; the Jewish community has been around for a very long time,” said Zagnoev.

He highlighted he would like to see the young people who attended to learn the historical events that took place, which determined who the Jews are and have become.

In that regard, it’s an important event in their history and to recognise the existence of antisemitism, which is devasting, not only for their community but for the entire world.

The impact was devasting and was evident in WWII.

King David Grade 7 learner Romy Zeifert said the significance of the day for her, is remembering all the people who died just because they were Jews.

“I find it incredible how people could have allowed the Holocaust to happen to a whole nation. The ceremony was very moving and I learnt a lot about our history,” said Zeifert.

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