BGU & YOU | NOVEMBER 2023

#Switzerland The Geneva Jewish Community and the Swiss Friends of BGU rallied around Israel, calling for the release of the hostages, organizing prayers and weekly demonstrations in front of the United Nations or the University of Geneva. At the same time, we have seen, like everywhere else in Europe, an increase in antisemitism, with more than 150 anti-Jewish actions since October 7 in the French part of Switzerland only. The Swiss Friends are also of course raising funds for the BGU emergency assistance funds. Lionel Halpérin, Geneva

Argentina Italy

United Kingdom

#South Africa As we mark a month since the horrific attack on Israel on October 7, the South African Jewish community remains heartbroken for the hostages and their families. As a community we are experiencing an extremely hostile approach by the South African government towards Israel. We will not despair and we will prevail, as a community and as a nation. We are also thankful for the many organizations working tirelessly to bring the hostages home. Thank you to those who have been involved in hanging posters on the Sea Point Promenade, balloons up at the Mandela Bridge or billboards in the CBD in Cape Town and Johannesburg. Daniel Yakcobi, SAICC, Cape Town & Johannesburg

#United Kingdom The UK Jewish community sprang into action within hours. Teams of volunteers at local synagogues packed clothes, toiletries, phone batteries, etc. for the soldiers and for people who lost their homes. Huge fundraisers have taken place. We have held rallies to remind the world about the hostages. We are all traumatised and our hearts are broken. We mourn with Israel. Antisemitism in schools, universities and in the workplace is rising and is terrifying. We need to make sure Israel is strong and the worldwide Jewish family knows there is a safe place for all. Ann Berger, London

USA

Belgium

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