Attached photo credit: Mark Neiman (GPO)
President Reuven (Ruvi) Rivlin was guest of honor last night, Monday 1 April 2019 / 25 Adar II, at a dinner for Canadian Magen David Adom, as part of his visit to Canada
In his remarks, the president thanked the attendees in Hebrew, French and English, and said that he was delighted to be able to celebrate the wonderful, life-saving work that Canadian Magen David Adom, established in 1976, does for Israel, Canada and the world. The president noted the support the organization gives to Magen David Adom in Israel, and that the Red Cross delegation to Mozambique, dealing with the effects of Cyclone Idai, includes representatives of the Canadian Red Cross and Red Crescent as well as Magen David Adom. “More than 750 people have lost their lives and over 100,000 have lost their homes,” said the president. “I am proud that we are there to help. Your work gives real meaning to the ancient Jewish expression ‘kol Yisrael arevim ze ba-ze’ - we are all - Jews, and the whole world - responsible for each other.”
Speaking about the situation in the south of Israel, the president said, “These are difficult days in Israel. Rockets and missiles are aimed at us, particularly the people of the south of Israel. Terror can strike at any moment. The Code Red sirens can turn normal daily life into an emergency in a second. Magen David Adom and its wonderful staff and volunteers are always ready, 24/7. So, on behalf of all Israelis - Jews, Arabs, religious, secular, men, women, young and old - I thank you for your friendship and support, which you express not just by words, but by your actions.”
Addressing the Canadian Jewish community, the president said, “Your support for Magen David Adom shows the strength of the bond between the people of Israel, and the people in Israel. We are working hard to build and strengthen the links that hold us together while respecting the differences between us. You, the Jewish communities around the world are a crucial part of our people. I want you all to know that Israel is home for every Jewish person who chooses but that all Jews must be free to make their homes wherever they choose.”