Please support the Chronicle! VOLUNTARY SUBSCRIPTIONS

FOR 2021 NOW DUE

VOLUME 37 No 11 Help us continue to DECEMBER 2020/JANUAR Y 2021 Home Is Where the Art Is – an exhibition www.cjc.org.za by and for Capetonians at Zeitz MOCAA Shining a light bring you news from Like many museums and galleries, the Zeitz MOCAA has works of art and over in a time of crisis been closed for most 1800 pieces were COVID-19 shifted included for of 2020. Home Is our world in Where the Art Is . Of a way no-one fter seven long the participating artists, could have the Cape Town months without more than 100 belong A anticipated. visitors, curators launched to the Cape Town Businesses a unique exhibition to Jewish Community celebrate its reopening which, while wonderful, closed, jobs were and to honour and unfortunately renders lost, people welcome back guests – acknowledgement of have had to dig Jewish Community specifically, Capetonians. each of them impossible deep to find An open call was made in this piece. their edge both for submissions of art personally and ‘made, owned and loved’ Sheryl Schkolne with her ceramic vessels, Participants were given a five-day period in professionally. by Capetonians. Cape Floral Kingdom (2014) Lee Jaffe — Gorgeous Gourmet October during which fter a very The response was overwhelming, and the pieces. Seven drop-offthey points could around drop off the their challenging year, local entrepreneur Richard Goldstein Museum received thousands of en A city (comprising approached Staffwise about shining a ray of light on our Ultimately, more than 1600 artists submitted art centres, art schools, tries. galleries and the like) were made available community. And so, spotlight businesses inThe our Shining community Light who Award have managed to make the process accessible for all. came about, to For more from just some of the artists go to page 29 to rise up and show, through resilience and out-of-the-box R350 thinking, what they can achieve in a time of crisis. They adapted, evolved or made positive adjustments to keep their Impactful story of Progressive Jewry businesses afloat. Staffwise and ORT Jet Cape Town jumped at the opportunity told in new SAJM exhibition to collaborate and make it happen. Lisa Sandler from ORT Jet said: “After some reflection we thought it would be a wonderful opportunity to showcase innovation and opportunity with businesses from our community who have pivoted to PAYMENT OPTIONS ON Ground Breakers: A get through the lockdown.” Liat Beinart, Staffwise’s Career History of Progressive Catalyst said it was an exciting opportunity for the two Judaism in South communal organisations “to complement and collaborate and Africa will be on let this initiative take shape”. display at the SA Inspired by Goldstein’s idea, generous donors from the PAGE 19 OR CLICK HERE! Jewish Museum from community recognised the space for rewarding local 14 December. businesses who took steps to stay afloat during COVID-19.

he exhibition is based “Despite initial reservations to this award,” says Caroline Ton the research of Kaimowitz, of Staffwise, “we had a fantastic response from Irwin Manoim, from the the community”. Initial reservations were about the sensitivity Kaplan Centre for Jewish of rewarding and highlighting businesses when it was such a Studies at UCT, who has tough year fraught with personal and financial difficulties. “But VOLUME 38 No 1 FEBRUARY 2021 www.cjc.org.za just published a book on this proved to be unfounded as we received so much positivity Rabbis Sherman and Weiler at the opening of Temple David, Durban the subject, and the number of applications – almost 50 – was beyond our in 1951 Mavericks Inside the Tent expectations”, added Caroline. . For more see page 8 DID YOU KNOW: Continues on page 37 3832 5.3k % Website Visits 73 Cape Town Followers in October % 4980 2020 22 Johannesburg www.cjc.org.za 1st of Month 900 65+ 23.5% % Other 45-54 16% Followers 55-64 Email 5 provinces 19% 35-44 16% 1844 25-34 18% Subscribers Readers by Region 18-24 7.5% Mid Month Readers by Age To subscribe email: A tribute to Remembering Eric Samson z”l [email protected]

Rabbi Desmond Maizels z”l The Cape Town Jewish to the wider South African community was shocked society where he was able Our community lost Camps Bay Shul; he was and saddened by the to help the less fortunate a great Rabbi and a shochet, mohel, sofer, news of the passing of Eric and previously marginalised mensch on 15 January, member of the Cape Beth Din Samson. people of South Africa. Eric when Rabbi Desmond and Head of the Cape Town was a true mensch.” United ributes and messages of Herzlia Schools. Maizels passed away Kashrut Department. Rabbi Maizels worked tirelessly condolence began pouring T “…it is now up to us, whose lives were so suddenly in Cape for the improvement and in online after news of the passing of beneficially touched by Eric, to live up Town. enhancement of Kashrut in the steel magnate and philanthropist in to the standards he set and build on the Cape Town and travelled the length Newport, California on 19 January. he tributes written on social strong foundations he so energetically and breadth of the country (and Tmedia all spoke of his humanity, Below are excerpts from a few laid. It is in following his example that world) inspecting factories, farms kindness and wisdom. He fulfilled social media posts that spoke to his we shall best be able to pay tribute to and shops.” Union of Orthodox so many important roles in the generosity and vision: the memory of a great human being.” Synagogues, Cape Council community that the face of Jewish Jewish Community Services. “…The magnitude of his achievements Cape Town that he changed so …”There are so many more stories was surpassed only by the greatness Days later, messages of condolence much during his lifetime can’t that I can tell. So many voices of his of his heart” SA Jewish Board of are still pouring in on social media help but be forever altered by that I hear in my head thinking of Deputies. as testimony to the many lives he his passing. him. The extent that he respected profoundly changed for the better. Below are excerpts from just a few his wife Esther was inspiring and “…We owe much of our communal of the moving posts expressing so special to hear. He was so proud continuity to him, and our sustainability Eric is survived by his wife Sheila, appreciation for Rabbi Maizels of his children living in Israel and will be his legacy.” SA Zionist Federation children Dorothy and Leonard, being part of the national Jewish Franki and Steven, and Jeffrey and and all that he did for the Jewish “…He didn’t only support Jewish future. His naughty laugh and Elana and 10 grandchildren and two community. organisations. His generosity extended mischievous smile were part of his great-grandchildren. “…He gave to the community in so humanity and more so, were part of See page 11 for a full tribute to Eric Samson many ways — he was a dedicated his connection to Hashem.” Rabbi congregational rabbi for decades Jonathan Altman and is the Rabbi Emeritus of Continues on page 4 Eliot Osrin Award winners announced Friends of UJC 12th annual year-end at Jewish Care Cape AGM Despite the challenging and changing times we are living in, Jewish event goes online Care Cape came Together as ONE for their 12th Annual General Meeting on Zoom, on 26 October 2020, providing a window to the More than 150 guests logged be felt by all. This year-end event seven welfare organisations that together reach out and provide the in from around the globe on was graciously hosted by Western range of services to ensure that we are indeed a caring community. 29 December for the 12th Cape Premier Alan Winde and was annual celebration of the live-streamed from his beautiful he Annual Eliot Osrin Awards, in recognition of outstanding contributions to Friends of the UJC Cape residence, the historic Leeuwenhof the welfare of the community, were announced at the AGM, but the Awards Cape Dutch home built in 1665. T Town (Friends). could not be physically handed over as usual. This was done on an individual Premier Winde welcomed all to our basis (all COVID protocols observed) and we are delighted to introduce you to atrons and Friends connected Cape Town event and spoke about the winners. from overseas and South P the humanity that South Africans Africa, and were joined by local have displayed towards each Top Donors for this uniquely South other in facing the challenges that African affair. COVID-19 has presented. The event, which has become a Guests were then treated to an highlight of the summer season hour of entertainment by the in Cape Town, and is usually held Cape Minstrels, Nik Rabinowitz at a unique and distinctive venue, (comedian), Carina Rubin-Frankal was held online this year, due to (producer of My Octopus Teacher), the pandemic. This did not detract Gabriel Sieff (pianist), Choni G from the usual splendour and (musician, chazzan) and Dani even though guests were not able Bitton (songstress, storyteller) all to connect in person the sense of beautifully tied together by MC, community and connection could Dani Jankelowitz, Brendan Widan, Loren Raize, Philip Todres, Jarred Marcus and Africa Melane. Lauren Lowenstein See pictures and read more on page 17 See page 22 for all the winners and excerpts from the citations on their awards. 2 Cape Jewish Chronicle February 2021 CONTENTS VOLUME 33 No 5 JUNE 2016 VOLUME 38 No 1 FEBRUARY 2021

Regular contributors Features

Page 3 Lindy with a why Page 4 Voluntary subscriptions request Page 4 Family Announcements Philip Krawitz elected onto JAFI Page 6-10 Cape SA Jewish Board of Deputies A tribute to Rabbi Maizels (from page 1) Page 12-13 SA Zionist Federation (Cape Council) Page 11 Remembering Eric Samson (from page 1) Page 14 Telfed Page 18 Steve Sherman wins international teacher award SA Jewish Museum Page 21 Magnificent ancient mosaics of Israel Page 15 Temple Israel Page 24 Witnessing Holocaust history with Eli Rabinowitz Page 16 Cape Jewish Seniors Association Page 17 Friends of the UJC (from page 1) Page 18 Chronic Ads Page 19 Anton Katz on vaccines Page 20 Craig Nudelman on immigrants Page 22 Jewish Care Cape (from page 1) 21

14

10 17 22

CJC EDITORIAL BOARD CSO emergency Chairman: Lester Hoffman.Ex-officio: Ben- Banking details: Zapper SnapScan number for security and Zion Surdut. Committee: Julie Berman, Standard Bank — Branch: Thibault Square; medical emergencies Geoff Cohen, Stuart Diamond, Kristy Evans, Branch code: 020 909; Acc no: 070 703 493; Barbara Flax, Rael Kaimowitz, Myra Osrin, Acc name: The Cape Jewish Chronicle Trust; 24 hours Jonathan Silke. Editor: Lindy Diamond, Acc type: Current Secretary: Tessa Epstein, Layout: Desrae 086 18 911 18 Saacks, Digital coordinator: Lisa Shapiro

DISCLAIMERS ERRORS, OMISSIONS AND CORRECTIONS The Cape Jewish Chronicle regrets any errors or omissions that may occur in the paper and, where possible, will attempt to rectify these in a subsequent issue, should such a measure be deemed appropriate. No repeat advertisement or credits will be given for small typographical errors which do not appreciably lessen the value of the advertisement. The appearance of an advertisement or photograph does not necessarily indicate approval or endorsement by the Editorial Board for the product or service advertised or photograph reproduced, and it takes no responsibility for any loss or damage suffered by any person as a result of the reliance upon the information contained therein. LETTERS AND OPINIONS Opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editorial Board or its sponsoring bodies. Letters submitted anonymously will not be printed. However, by agreement, the writer’s name may be withheld in the publication. Letters are published subject to space being available. The Editor and the Editorial Board have the right to decide on the inclusion of any item submitted for publication. Letters may be edited for clarity, space and/or language. KASHRUT Unless otherwise stated, food and catering services advertised in this publication are not under the supervision of the Cape Beth Din. FINANCIAL You should always obtain independent expert advice prior to making any financial investment, commercial or other decisions. Do not enter into any transactions of the above nature, based partly or wholly on the content of any advertisements or articles published in the Cape Jewish Chronicle. Cape Jewish Chronicle Samson Centre 87 Hatfield Str Gardens 8001 PO Box 4176 Cape Town 8000 phone 021 464 6736 [email protected] Editor Lindy Diamond Cape Jewish Chronicle February 2021 3 Lindy with a why Why my kosher kitchen is even more precious now

By Lindy Diamond, Editor Cape Jewish Chronicle Every year on 13 August I get Maizels could have spoken to me a pop-up reminder on my about in our evening together. phone that it is the anniversary Subjects like Jewish learning and the of koshering our kitchen. I rules of kashrut spring to mind. But see the message and smile, he spoke to me about his time as the editor of his ‘varsity newspaper. He remembering the mammoth spoke to me about my girls; the fact task and the journey that led that the younger two were battling up to it. to fall asleep, about my eldest who t had started before Pesach — was finishing up a school project. He Iour goal was to transition to only asked me the functions of some of buying kosher meat for our home. But the items he was koshering, and he things snowballed, as they do, and told me about his own kosher kitchen after realising the shortage in free- — strictly the domain of Rebbetzin range kosher options, we decided Maizels. to go pescatarian, and then, in time, It felt deeply personal and yet deeply realised how easy it would be to respectful of boundaries and it was take the extra step to have a milchik just wonderful. kosher kitchen. In the years that have followed, my Cue the entrance of Rabbi Maizels kosher kitchen has given me such z”l. I emailed him our deep desire to a sense of joy and pride. Whenever have a kosher kitchen and asked if I would see Rabbi Maizels he would he would be able to help us. I cringe always ask about my family, my a little now, knowing how busy and eldest’s school project and about sought after he must have been. how the kosher kitchen was going, But he found the time for us, and on and I would answer honestly that it the evening of 13 August, 2017 he was the best gift anyone could give arrived at our house to help us with for a Jewish home. And when, on this transformational mitzvah. occasion, I would rush with checking Rabbi Maizels and I went through herbs or eggs, I would chastise the rituals of koshering my dishes, myself with a, “what would Rabbi Coming to Cape Town in 2022 in what can only be described as the Maizels think?!” and slow myself calmest, most in the moment, deeply down to do it properly. grounded way. His presence is one Now, at the risk of sounding New direct neighbour to that can’t easily be explained, but if sentimental, I feel like every dish in Claremont Wynberg Hebrew Congregation you’ve ever been around him, you my house is utterly precious, having know what I mean. been made kosher by this kind, I remember feeling a little nervous wise and Godly man. The memory Luxury Lifestyle Residential at first, having him standing in my of koshering my kitchen is made little kitchen, dipping — dipping bittersweet as I feel the profound Development for over 50s everything that was to remain, giving loss of Rabbi Maizels with the rest a very gentle shake of his head for of our community and Jews around an item that just couldn’t be properly the world. May his memory, and the koshered and should be donated. mitzvot he did in our community, be for a blessing. There were a million things Rabbi

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back to contents 4 Cape Jewish Chronicle February 2021 Philip Krawitz elected onto JAFI Please support the Chronicle! Board of Governors VOLUNTARY SUBSCRIPTIONS At the end of 2020, who never knew the FOR 2021 NOW DUE Philip Krawitz was time when the State of elected onto the Israel did not exist. We Jewish Agency For all have to realise how privileged we are! One Help us continue to Israel (JAFI) Board VOLUME 37 No 11 of the powerful goals DECEMBER 2020/JANUAR Y 2021 Home Is Where the Art Is – an exhibition www.cjc.org.za of Governors, bring you news from by and for Capetonians at Zeitz MOCAA that I am going to try to Like many museums Shining a light and galleries, the in a time of crisis after having been Zeitz MOCAA has works of art and over ensure is that our children the Cape Town been closed for most 1800 pieces were COVID-19 shifted included for of 2020. Home Is our world in Where the Art Is a way no-one fter seven long the participating artists,. Of nominated by could have Amonths without more than 100 belong and grandchildren grow visitors, curators launched anticipated. Jewish Community to the Cape Town Businesses a unique exhibition to Jewish Community celebrate its reopening which, while wonderful, closed, jobs were and to honour and unfortunately renders lost, people Keren Hayesod, an up understanding the welcome back guests – acknowledgement of have had to dig specifically, Capetonians. each of them impossible deep to find An open call was made in this piece. their edge both for submissions of art personally and ‘made, owned and loved’ Sheryl Schkolne with her ceramic vessels, Participants were given Israeli fundraising importance and the a five-day period in professionally. R350 by Capetonians. Cape Floral Kingdom (2014) Lee Jaffe — Gorgeous Gourmet October during which fter a very The response was overwhelming, and the pieces. Seven drop-offthey points could around drop off the their challenging year, local entrepreneur Richard Goldstein Museum received thousands of entries. A city (comprising art centres, art schools, approached Staffwise about shining a ray of light on our Ultimately, more than 1600 artists submitted centrality of Israel in community. And so, organisation in which galleries and the like) were made available spotlight businesses inThe our Shining community Light who Award have managed to make the process accessible for all. came about, to For more from just some of the artists go to page 29 to rise up and show, through resilience and out-of-the-box thinking, what they can achieve in a time of crisis. They PAYMENT OPTIONS ON adapted, evolved or made positive adjustments to keep their he has been involved their lives that Israel will Impactful story of Progressive Jewry businesses afloat. Staffwise and ORT Jet Cape Town jumped at the opportunity told in new SAJM exhibition to collaborate and make it happen. Lisa Sandler from ORT PAGE 19 OR CLICK HERE! Jet said: “After some reflection we thought it would be a always be there for them.” wonderful opportunity to showcase innovation and opportunity for many years. with businesses from our community who have pivoted to Ground Breakers: A get through the lockdown.” Liat Beinart, Staffwise’s Career History of Progressive Catalyst said it was an exciting opportunity for the two Judaism in South communal organisations “to complement and collaborate and Africa will be on let this initiative take shape”. Philip’s broader goals include display at the SA Inspired by Goldstein’s idea, generous donors from the n being elected, Philip says, “I Jewish Museum from community recognised the space for rewarding local 14 December. businesses who took steps to stay afloat during COVID-19. he exhibition is based “Despite initial reservations to this award,” says Caroline connecting Jews in the diaspora; Ton the research of Kaimowitz, of Staffwise, “we had a fantastic response from was very honoured. We need to Irwin Manoim, from the the community”. Initial reservations were about the sensitivity O Kaplan Centre for Jewish of rewarding and highlighting businesses when it was such a Studies at UCT, who has tough year fraught with personal and financial difficulties. “But educating Jews in South Africa just published a book on this proved to be unfounded as we received so much positivity Rabbis Sherman and Weiler at the opening of Temple David, Durban continue to support Israel when and the subject, and the number of applications – almost 50 – was beyond our in 1951 Mavericks Inside the Tent . expectations”, added Caroline. For more see page 8 about Israel through JAFI’s various DID YOU KNOW: Continues on page 37 how we can. I will work very hard to try Shabbat and Yom Tov3832 Times5.3k % 73 Cape Town Followers Website Visits programmes, such as through

in October % to strengthen the link between South 2020 22 4980 www.cjc.org.za Johannesburg 1st of Month 900 65+ 23.5% % Other 45-54 16% Date Portion FollowersCandle lighting55-64 Email Ends 5 provinces 19% bringing shlichim to South Africa; 35-44 16% Subscribers 1844 25-34 18% Mid Month Africa and the Jewish Agency and to Readers by Region 18-24 7.5% Readers by Age To subscribe email: Earliest Latest [email protected] ensure a two-way relationship”. and promoting Aliyah through, for 5 Feb/23 Shevat Yitro 6.30pm 7.15pm 8.23pm example, Masa or Birthright. 12 Feb/30 Shevat Mishpatim/Shekalim 6.30pm 7.15pm 8.16pm Philip emphasised the extent of the He adds, “I’m optimistic that we 19 Feb/7 Adar Terumah/Zachor 6.30pm 7.15pm 8.08pm role JAFI (the Sochnut) has played are going to be entering into a very 26 Feb/14 Adar Tetzaveh 6.30pm 7.08pm 7.59pm since its establishment in 1929 “to ensure that there is a vibrant Jewish constructive phase of working with N.B. Please note that the times indicated are the earliest times for candle future for generations to come” Israel, in the interest of Israel and in lighting. Please consult your Rabbi. including its part in establishing the the interest of Jews in the diaspora. State of Israel. I look forward to the opportunity and will do my best to maintain those links JAFI’s mission, bringing Jews to Israel both ways as passionately as I can”. and Israel to the Jews, encapsulates Family Announcements Philip’s core values. He explains, The Board comprises 120 individuals “We now have an entire generation from all over the world and his appointment runs through 2022. BEREAVEMENT Continues from page 1 HENECK Harold and Sheila, passed away peacefully within days of each other. A tribute to Generous and loving to their family and friends, they leave behind a magnificent legacy. Rabbi Desmond Maizels z”l May their memory be a comfort for Martin, Glen, Trevor, Tony “…I recall when Zeesy and I were contact with. Rabbi Maizels was and families. sitting with Rabbi Maizels the day an eternal optimist — a person We will miss them dearly. before my son’s Bris… he spoke to us who saw problems as challenges about the intricacies of the process and opportunities for innovation With love, Marco, Gwen and the Van Embden Family. as if we were nervous parents, — cheerfully finding innovative gently putting us both at ease, as if ways of solving things when others CONDOLENCES — THANK YOU we were hearing about it for the first gave up. His contribution to our time in our lives. This was a typical community was greater than words BENNY SCHLOSBERG Rabbi Maizels moment — dropping can adequately describe, and his everything else that he had on his absence is unthinkable. His decades We would like to thank Rabbi and Rebetzin Wineberg, mind and schedule (and it was a lot!), of leadership have given him an Rabbi Bernstein, all our family and friends and the greater to be there for you — a truth of which eternal legacy — and us a towering community for your love, overwhelming support and compassion thousands of people can, and please example to emulate….” Chief Rabbi on the untimely and tragic passing of our husband, G-d will, attest to.” Rabbi Asher Deren Warren Goldstein father and grandfather, Benny OBM. “…He was a rabbi and teacher and Rabbi Maizels was buried in Israel on We greatly appreciate your calls, messages and all the meals, friend to his congregants – and to 20 January. which have been an incredible source of comfort to us. everyone. He epitomised the teaching Many members of the Cape Town Benny was a true mensch. His passing has left an enormous void in of Pirkei Avot – of receiving everyone Jewish Community have their own our lives. We will miss his unconditional love, support, with a friendly face. He exuded ‘Rabbi Maizels stories’. You are guidance, wisdom, kindness and generosity. warmth and kindness and happiness. invited to send yours to the family at He never failed to make us smile with his sense of humour He beamed love and cheerfulness [email protected] and wittiness. Benny touched so many people’s lives to every human being he came into in his own special way and through his many selfless actions set a wonderful example for us to follow. We will miss him every day and the beautiful, cherished memories Follow the Chronicle online we have of Benny will live in our hearts forever. Deeply mourned by his loving wife Rica, children Tammy and Kevin, Robert and Jacqui, grandchildren, sisters and families.

To place a family announcement, email: [email protected] Click on your favourite social media site & visit our website.

back to contents Cape Jewish Chronicle February 2021 5

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back to contents 6 Cape Jewish Chronicle February 2021 CAPE SAJBD

KEEPING IT REAL VIEW FROM THE CHAIR Raising our collective voice Lighting a candle with the president

By Stuart Diamond, Executive Director, Cape SAJBD By Tzvi Brivik The New Year offers us a chance to start Our community was offered of vaccines and anew with the wisdom we gained in the the opportunity to honour the affirmed the previous year. memory of those healthcare government’s workers who lost their lives to support for health wo issues of concern that we bring with workers. us into 2021 are the high levels of divisive COVID-19 by lighting a candle. T After the ceremony, debate in our community and the small — yet he invitation was received directly candles were dangerous if unchecked— rise in antisemitism from the office of the Presidency to T lit by President and anti-Jewish cases reported to the Cape the Cape SAJBD. A decision was made Ramaphosa, the SAJBD. to hold the ceremony at the Khayelitsha MEC for Health District Hospital in recognition of the In 2019, we launched our new reporting system so that community Mbombo, Premier Winde and the service of those brave nurses and members could report all incidents of antisemitism or anti-Jewish representatives of the various faiths. We doctors working for this severely affected behaviour. This reporting tool allowed members to report by various at the Cape SAJBD are grateful to have portion of our community. categories, namely hate speech, intimidation, acts of violence, had the opportunity to join the ceremony vandalism and graffiti. In that year, we had 10 reported cases, which To ensure that the and bring in 2021 were mainly acts of vandalism and graffiti. At the time, we had Adjusted Level 3 travel The prayer I offered on with other faiths and the odd incident on school campuses, and these were excellently and curfew restrictions elected leaders of our handled together with the Cape Town Holocaust and Genocide were not infringed upon, behalf of the Jewish government. We hope Centre. the ceremony was held community recognised that this year will see In 2020, with the community more aware of the tool, we saw our at 19:45. In attendance those lives lost, and an end to the loss of life case numbers rise to 19 with an alarming increase in antisemitism were President Cyril pleads for the end of and economic decline. Ramaphosa, Premier taking place on school campuses in the Western Cape. the pandemic and ways This invitation from Alan Winde, MEC for the President’s office The Cape SAJBD will continue to engage with these schools and Health Nomafrench forward for our country. also recognised the advocate that they ensure students have the correct programmes Mbombo and vital role the Cape to counter the narrative of antisemitism. The Cape SAJBD works Deputy MEC for Safety and Security. SAJBD occupies in representing our closely with the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) in the US to ensure Alongside me representing the Jewish community in civil society and ensuring that we are not only trained but that we have the best materials community, there were representatives an ongoing dialogue with all branches available. of the Khoisan community, Anglican of government. Our role is critical in community, Catholic community and the We continue to urge community members to report instances safeguarding our community’s civil rights chairman of the Muslim Judicial Council of antisemitism through our reporting system. That way, the and facilitating an exchange of ideas and Shayk Irafaan Abrahams also attended. professionals and lay leaders on the Antisemitism & Legal concerns. Subcommittee, led by Simone Sulcas, can ensure we break down The prayer I offered on behalf of the The prayer which I offered included the the pipeline of hate. Jewish community recognised those following: In March 2021, we will launch our antisemitism booklet that lives lost, and pleads for the end of the community members can download and share. We hope that both pandemic and ways forward for our “All in Heaven and Earth acknowledge the Jewish and non-Jewish communities will use this resource. country. The ceremony itself was very Your kingship and authority, and in Your intimate, as a gathering of no more than hands is the soul of all living and the spirit Today, we have a communal and moral obligation to be the 50 people was allowed. The President within all flesh, and it is in your power and whistleblower when we see or feel something is not right. I often gave a moving address honouring fallen strength to nurture and strengthen and hear community members say that what they witnessed was ‘not healthcare workers and recognising the cure humanity to the utmost, and nothing serious’ or that it had ‘no power to impact people’. However, when government’s failure to provide PPE and is beyond Your ability. This prayer stands we choose to turn away from the graffiti tags or the words filled with support to those health workers. The for all of us for the year 2021 and we hate, our silence can be seen as agreement. My team and I are there President also discussed the purchase hope that our prayers are heard.” to deal with these matters and protect you. If you see something, do something. In response to the divisiveness that we have seen inside and outside of our community, the Cape SAJBD recently launched a campaign titled #WordsMatter. The campaign underscores our right to freedom of expression in a democratic society, that this right is “balanced against other fundamental human rights — such as our right to human dignity, equality, and freedom of religion, belief and opinion”. That is, “free speech” is “never a justification for the use of derogatory or hateful words”. Most importantly, this campaign design encourages us to reflect on the words we use and the potential impact that these words might have on another. Martin Luther King Jr said: “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.”

May this be a year that we all find our voices and commit to raising Tzvi Brivik engaging with President Ramaphosa and Premier Winde at the candle lighting them when needed so that we create a safer future for our community. ceremony.

CapeSAJBD capesajbd capesajbd.org CAPE SAJBD

back to contents Cape Jewish Chronicle February 2021 7 CAPE SAJBD

Towards a world of interfaith harmony

By Gwynne Robins In 2010, King Abdullah II of government. Despite this, the Cape filmed for television, Jordan at the 65th UN General SAJBD has been commemorating featuring the Herzlia Assembly proposed a World the event annually since 2012. Our School choir, Muslim Interfaith Harmony Week. initiative has been followed by the musicians, and Cape Town Interfaith Initiative, the performers from the ing Abdullah said: “It is [also] Cape Town Ahmadiyyas, and in Congolese refugee Kessential to resist forces of Durban, by the World Alliance of community, the division that spread misunder- Religions and Peace. African traditional standing and mistrust especially community and the Our first event was addressed by among peoples of different religions. Khoisan community. The fact is, humanity everywhere Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of Gift of This year, our is bound together, not only by the Givers, who flew in from Maputo Zoom webinar will mutual interests, but by shared where he had been assisting with a be looking at how commandments to love God and flood. the different faith neighbour… What we are proposing Since then we have hosted Meeting at Holy Cross Primary School communities have is a special week, during which the breakfasts and panel discussions Henkeman (who passed away been coping during the lockdown. world’s people, in their own places of with speakers ranging from former recently from COVID-19), Turquoise We shall be sharing ideas about worship, could express the teachings Premier Ebrahim Rasool, Mayor Harmony Institute’s Muhittin Canlibel, how they have managed to connect of their own faith about tolerance, Dan Plato and former mayor Rev and others. their congregation, not all of their respect for the others and peace.” Gordon Oliver to Judge Albie Sachs, Our events have attracted members members owning computers, and Judge Dennis Davis, Khoisan The first week in February was from the Anglican, Catholic, Dutch how they have had to negotiate Chief Autshumao, Archbishop selected and it was passed Reformed and Unitarian Churches, services and life cycle events, and Stephen Brislin, Dominee Ds Braam unanimously. Although South and Baha’i, Sunni, Shiite, Ahmadiyya the many COVID-19 fatalities. It is on Hanekom, Rabbi Greg Alexander, Africa, with its history of racism and African Traditional faith Thursday 4 February from 19:00 to Rabbi Osher Feldman, Mickey Glass, and prejudice, would benefit communities. 20:00 with a livestream on Facebook. from promoting the concept, Prof Jonathan Jansen, Cape Times Contact Jodi at [email protected] no programmes are run by the editor Gasant Abarder, Institute of Last year’s interfaith concert was Justice and Reconciliation’s Stanley held at Greenpoint Temple Israel and for the link.

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back to contents 8 Cape Jewish Chronicle February 2021

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On reflection and reconciliation

By Stuart Diamond Over the past year, what Africa’s beloved Nelson Rolihlahla exist within South African society; to find spaces where it can hold safe we have grown to consider Mandela. In a Reconciliation Day deep disparities that were yet again and/ or brave conversations ‘for ‘normal life’ has been speech given in 1995, Mandela exposed by COVID-19. the sake of heaven’. Where we can said, “Reconciliation means working speak respectfully across difference. completely upended. The challenge now is, how do we hold together to correct the legacy of Perhaps one of our greatest on to the shared sense of purpose rom how we understand work- past injustice.” challenges as a community is that helped us, as a community, school-home life, to how we a reconciling between South F This day holds so many lessons for our come together and navigate 2020? socialise, pray and interact as a African Jews. small Jewish community on the tip of community, no person has been The year 2020 was marked by Africa. I have always wondered if by In 2019, I was selected to be a unaffected by the COVID-19 the deepening of partisan politics easing our transition into a ‘Rainbow part of two international leadership pandemic. Aside from health globally and a seeming inability for Nation’, Mandela unintentionally also fellowships, the Schusterman concerns and the tragic loss of life, people to hear each other across denied South African Jews their Fellowship and the Nahum Goldmann 2020 has also brought economic their differences. moment of reflection and, as such, of Fellowship, the latter which aims hardship for many, and economic authentic reconciliation. to provide “a constructive space devastation for others. In South Reflecting on this trend, over the last few months, I have witnessed for young leaders to test questions Africa, the number of households Reconciliation demands that you not debates and discussions among and assumptions… and learn about facing food insecurity has only listen but ‘hear’ each other. As our community members on social the diversity and shared values grown significantly. such, can there be true reconciliation media platforms about a wide across the Jewish world”. It was in without reflection? But 2020 also forced us to pause, variety of difficult topics, from PPE, these spaces that I experienced reflect and adapt — as individuals At the time of his death in December COVID-19, schools and shuls, to the possibility of speaking across and as a community. 2013, I had served two years in the Jack Markovitz. Some of these difference (ideological, political, Council of the City of Cape Town. I discussions were constructive and geographical, denominational, etc.) The challenges facing the Jewish remember standing in reflection at engaging and others soon became on difficult issues in a respectful community in 2020 have been memorial prayers at Cape Town’s divisive and ugly. In response to manner. These spaces offered me extensive, with the pandemic and Civic Centre Chambers as Rabbi this type of divisiveness, the Cape the opportunity to share and speak lockdown inevitably putting stress on Asher Deren delivered prayers of SAJBD instituted a campaign, about my experiences as a South communal resources. Yet adversity mourning on Mandela’s passing on #WordsMatter. The #WordsMatter African and also listen and reflect on also brought out the best of what behalf of the Cape Jewish community. campaign underscores 1) our right to the experiences of others. the Cape Jewish community can be I remember thinking at the time, freedom of expression in a democratic when aligned with a shared purpose. Our community so desperately needs “Why do we only reflect in times of society, and 2) that this right is these types of spaces where we can The language of the past year pain and immense challenge?” “balanced against other fundamental listen to each other. And, reflect on seemed to shift too. I have heard human rights — such as our right to This year has undoubtedly been one what we hear. the words ‘pivot’ and ‘paradigm human dignity, equality, and freedom of immense challenge and for many, shifts’ many times. But for me, of religion, belief and opinion.” That It was on these two different journeys deep pain. Aside from navigating the key phrase that I found most ‘free speech’ is never “a justification that I also learnt to be appreciative our own personal and communal compelling, which I heard primarily in for the use of derogatory or hateful of South African Jewry and the challenges, we have also seen the international circles, was ‘reflective words.” Most importantly, this enormous talent that exists in our pain and suffering of so many in learning’. campaign is designed to encourage communal structures. It was in these South Africa. It has been devastating us to reflect on the words we use and moments of clarity that I was very Reflective learning emphasises the to see how many South Africans the potential impact that these words much a South African Jew and a intention to learn from our current have gone hungry over this period. might have on another. proud one at that. or prior experiences. Reflection is a I hope that this difficult time has also type of thinking aimed at achieving COVID-19 has not hidden the fact What this year most powerfully allowed us to reflect a little deeper a better understanding that leads to that our community is still grappling underscored is that we should be on the painful disparities that still fresh perspectives. By sitting with using reflection as a tool as often as and analysing our strengths and we can, to shift stubborn outdated weaknesses and questioning our paradigms and to safeguard the perceptions we can create a path ones that have stood the test of time. from where we are now, to where we Our community has shown its want to be. resilience, but this challenge is far The idea is to step back first in from over. This year will likely be as reflection, rather than forward in challenging as 2020. It will ask of us action, to help see the larger picture. as a community to be more caring, Reflection has become inculcated in thoughtful and understanding of my decision-making at a personal, one another — to ‘hear’ each other professional and communal level. – as well as ‘hear’ our fellow South Africans. It is when we do this that Of course, reflection in a time of we will have a community that can crisis is not always easy. In crisis- sustain itself for generations to come. mode, we often simply react. This article was originally That the writing of this piece published on DafkaDotCom coincides with Reconciliation Day (16 (www.dafkadotcom.org) on December 2020) is not lost on me. 21 December 2020. This month also marks the seventh anniversary of the passing of South

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back to contents Cape Jewish Chronicle February 2021 9 CAPE SAJBD

Caledon’s springs attracted Jewish settlers in the 19th century

by Gwynne Robins Caledon is famous for its seven Nationalist Party, with Dr Donges springs — one cold, six thermal (later state president) as a speaker, — warmed by rocks heated with Dr Verwoerd (later prime deep underground to 49.5° C. minister) at another. During the As early as 1797, a bathhouse Second World War, there was a virtual boycott of Jewish shops with was built there, followed by a slogans on school blackboards, and sick house and a sanatorium. the synagogue was vandalised. nderstandably, Jewish Caledon, like all the country Uimmigrants spreading out into communities, started to lose its the interior looking for economic members as the children grew up and opportunities would be drawn to moved to the cities for education, to a village that was already hosting be followed later by their parents. In visitors and, as early as 1870, 1952, there were still 11 families with J Hurwitz, a smous (‘hawker’), six children. The SAJBD provided and a Mr Brauer had settled there, Caledon with a subsidy to assist followed around 1880 by Solomon families who could not afford the Gordon who introduced ostriches, cost of Jewish education. Its Country the Allegenskys, fishmongers, Communities subcommittee, with the The synagogue as a private home Mordechai Choritz and Isaac help of Rabbi Duschinsky, tried to Newmark, general dealers, and its visitors must have been good for buy land for a synagogue before assist it with a minister for the High Chaim Landaw, a shop assistant and business. A 1911 advertisement for 1925, and their synagogue was only Holy Days and a minister to visit Samuel Ressel, a bootmaker. Many the baths which was “of the utmost erected in 1928, although Solomon them once a week, and he suggested Caledon Jews later owned local importance to humanity from a Gordon had organised a minyan that the SAJBD helped by arranging hotels or ran B&Bs, were general curative point of view”, stated the to celebrate the High Holy Days in cultural events to retain the interest dealers, grain and wool buyers, properties of which were “unexcelled the 1880s. In 1914, HM Grodzinski and involvement of the community. ostrich feather dealers, shopkeepers throughout the world,” particularly for was the congregation president and and one, a cinema owner. Solly “most chronic cases of disease in Montagu’s Rev N Cohen was its In 1955, the SAJBD loaned a Sefer Perlo, proprietor of the Commercial which stagnation of the blood is the mohel, cantor and shochet. In 1918, Torah to the Caledon Hebrew Hotel served as mayor on distinguishing feature.” 18 members attended services. By Congregation. The SAJBD had several occasions. 1933, they held established a Sifrei Torah Fund to “ M o r e o v e r , weekly services assist country When Dr Daniell the Baths are Many Caledon Jews later owned and celebrating There were several antisemitic communities published an situated in a all chagim. At its to obtain Sifrei article in the local hotels or ran B&Bs, were district in which incidents with protest peak, 40 families Torah and later South African general dealers, grain and wool Titania and all meetings against Jewish lived there. They gave Caledon a Medical Journal her fairy court buyers, ostrich feather dealers, managed to immigration in Caledon in the Torah from the in 1894 praising might well shopkeepers and one, a cinema retain ministers 1930s by the Nationalist Party, defunct Ladismith the waters as wander amid the Hebrew a treatment for owner. Solly Perlo, proprietor until 1945. with Dr Donges (later state of the Commercial Hotel served natural garden president) as a speaker, with Congregation. rheumatism, that of multitudinous Usually, one of In 1957, the put the village as mayor on several occasions. heath. The the first things Dr Verwoerd (later Prime synagogue on the map. Caledon Baths that a Jewish Minister) at another. windows were Poor immigrants Company community does smashed. By complaining of rheumatism asked the had built a splendidly appointed is to purchase 1970, there was Cape Town Hebrew Congregation’s sanatorium and hotel with 100 a burial ground, but the baths must no longer a minyan, and in 1982, Cape Town Jewish Philanthropic bedrooms, several suites of rooms, have kept the congregation healthy the Caledon Hebrew Congregation Society to send them to Caledon, 30 bathing rooms, nine reception as they only got a cemetery quite late ceased to exist. In 1983, their Sifrei but this turned out to be a costly rooms and a very large concert at an unknown date and, by 1947, Torah was given on loan to the treatment. When the society sent a hall, where dances are often held, it only contained seven graves with Camps Bay Hebrew congregation. young man to Caledon for treatment, and a string band played frequently the last Jewish funeral taking place it discovered that it had to pay thirty during the week. There are also two in 1955. Earlier Jews were buried in In 1994, the SAJBD’s Country shillings for travelling expenses, £6 for pianos in the hotel, three reading and the Dutch Reformed cemetery or the Communities Subcommittee met with a month’s maintenance at the Baths, writing rooms, and daily papers are bodies were sent to Cape Town. In members of the Caledon community £1.16.0 for Dr Daniell’s treatment, in abundance. There are extensive 1995, the vacant section was given to adopt a new constitution and and £1.6.0 for board and lodging vegetable and fruit gardens, and to the municipality in return for a approve the sale of the synagogue every nine days, and when it asked it houses its own butcher. Milk commitment to look after the graves. to an Afrikaans man who wished to the presumably Jewish landlady for a and butter are produced on the A precast wall was erected around use it as a private home. The money reduction, she only agreed to give it a premises, as well as bread and other the graves two years later, once it was put into the Caledon Hebrew donation. When a second man with a necessities. There is roomy stabling, was realised that the municipality Congregation Bursary Fund. wife and eight children in Russia also and carts are for hire; a motor-garage was not doing so. The Country Communities asked to be sent to Caledon, they is also attached to the Baths.” There were several antisemitic subcommittee of the Cape SAJBD gave him £3 and told him to make his looks after the cemeteries of the own arrangements. With all these attractions, surprisingly, incidents with protest meetings the community did not have sufficient against Jewish immigration in defunct country communities. For The ‘far-famed Caledon Baths’ and committed religious leadership to Caledon in the 1930s by the queries or to get involved, contact Stuart Diamond on [email protected]

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back to contents 10 Cape Jewish Chronicle February 2021 CAPE SAJBD

Cape SAJBD engages Piketberg Homeless to benefit from donation to municipality and stakeholders CCID Social Development

By Mathilde Myburgh By Mathilde Myburgh In November, our Executive Director Stuart Diamond handed over R6321.27 to the Social Development department of the Cape Town Central City Improvement District (CCID) towards its annual Show You Care campaign CCID Social Development manager Pat initiative, Hope for the Eddy, Cape SAJBD Executive Director Stuart Stakeholders engage with our Executive Director Homeless. Diamond and CCID CEO Tasso Evangelinos Stuart Diamond during a meeting held at the Piketberg Jewish Museum (the old synagogue) his is a great springboard for of the Cape Town Central City, many Tour Social Justice working group offering work-based rehabilitation On Friday 27 November, our Executive The Ceres Jewish Cemetery which was formed and started work programmes that give street people Director Stuart Diamond travelled was cleaned by good in September. Below, an excerpt from the chance at a better life. Samaritan David Cohen, free to Piketberg to visit the Bergriver the beautiful letter from CCID Social of charge to the Cape SAJBD, Other than raising much-need Municipality leadership, as well as the Development manager Pat Eddy: on Wednesday 12 December. funds to drive the work of our NGO curator of the local museum. We appreciate you! If you want to get involved with our “The donation will go a long way partners, the campaign aims to raise he museum is situated in what was the old Country Communities and in reaching our goal of raising awareness of and empathy for the TPiketberg synagogue, and Stuart visited our cemetery maintenance R100 000 for our partner NGOs who plight of street people, especially in projects, email Stuart on work with the homeless community the face of a global pandemic. to see how they captured the history of the [email protected] Piketberg Jews. After a meeting and engaging with the speaker, the municipal manager and various other leaders of the council, the group of delegates visited the historical graveyard, which has a section for the Jewish community of Piketberg. They viewed the cemetery, discussing maintenance and future upgrading. It is important for us as the Cape SAJBD to continue a good relationship with the Bergrivier Municipality and we deeply appreciate its assistance in looking after these historical Jewish spaces. We encourage the Cape Jewish community to visit Piketberg and learn more about the Jewish history of the town, and we continue to work to ensure both the museum and cemetery are well maintained. Antisemitism in education spaces

By Stuart Diamond If an antisemitic incident DON’T: Use hateful language to happens on your campus respond. Your goal should be to or in your online learning show why bias is hurtful, not to even environment: the score. DO: Call campus security, or call DON’T: Take matters into your own CSO immediately if there is any hands. If someone puts up antisemitic threat to your safety or that of your flyers or online content, for example, fellow students. do not remove them without approval from your university. DO: Document the incident. DON’T: Call for bans on free speech. DO: Report the incident to campus Focus instead on countering bad authorities as a bias incident. speech with good speech. DO: Try to find out if the perpetrator DON’T: Give up. It’s important to of the incident was a student or show how much this event or incident someone from off-campus/ outside hurts you, and share those feelings your learning environment. with your fellow students. DO: Report the incident by emailing You can respond effectively. the Cape SAJBD at sajbd2@ctjc. Empower your campus community co.za. Your report will help us to learn from the event, and to keep accurate data and combat take steps to ensure it doesn’t antisemitism. happen again.

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back to contents Cape Jewish Chronicle February 2021 11 Remembering Eric Samson z”l It was with great sadness that the the Cape Town Jewish United Jewish Campaign learnt Community often of the passing of Eric Samson z”l, depended on him. No a devoted husband to Sheila, a one gave tzedakah so willingly and on the loving father to his children Jeffrey scale and generosity that Eric and Sheila did. Their philanthropy changed lives and and Elana Samson, Dorothy and enhanced the sustainability of so many of Leonard Sank, and Franki and our communal organisations. Steven Cohen and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. If there was a need to support Torah learning and living, shuls and yeshivot, s the Talmud says: (Moed Katan) Eric was willing. If the Cape Jewish A“Weep for the mourners, not for what Seniors Association needed transport for is lost. He found him rest, Tis we are left its members or the CSO needed to equip a distressed” and indeed we have been left medical response car, Eric would provide distressed. it for them with an open hand and a warm To the Jewish community Eric was heart. It was the Eric and Sheila Samson irreplaceable. He was a source of wisdom Foundation that helped fund our Jewish and understanding, a modest and day schools and youth movements, our visionary leader. Although the Pirkei Avot welfare organisations, Highlands House, (1:2) teaches us that the world stands on the Cape Town Holocaust and Genocide three pillars: Torah, avodah, and gemilut Foundation, the Jacob Gitlin Library, the hasadim, in Cape Town, we had the benefit Chevrah Kadisha and the cemetery. All of an additional pillar, Eric Samson z”l, on the organisations in the Samson Centre whom we could rely whenever assistance like the CSO, the Cape Jewish Chronicle, was required to advance those three the Jewish Board of Deputies, the Western pillars. Province Zionist Federation and of course the United Jewish Campaign benefitted When it came to the study of Torah and projects, Eric was the go-to person. Eric, with the from their funds. It was not just what Eric Jewish education, or to the support of the services full support of his devoted wife Sheila, was always gave that was impressive, it was the manner in in synagogues and temples, or to fund a wide range there. Eric was a true mensch in every way and which he gave. His passing is a deep loss for us all of acts of loving-kindness both in the Jewish and his impact on Jewish life in our city was immense. for we have lost a giant. the non-Jewish community, Eric was always there. Another one of the Pirkei Avot (1:17) states that it is Projects in South Africa like the Nelson Mandela May Sheila and the family be comforted amongst not what one says but what one does that makes all Children’s Hospital, in America like the Cleveland the mourners for Zion and Jerusalem, and may the the difference in the world, and it was what Eric did Clinic or in Israel like the Independence Hall, the days of their mourning be ended. that made all the difference and the wellbeing of Samson Assuta Hospital and numerous other Baruch Dayan Ha’emet.

back to contents 12 Cape Jewish Chronicle February 2021

DIRECTOR'S CUT VIEW FROM THE CHAIR By Chaya Singer, Executive Director SAZF Cape Council Karen Marsden Sank, Chairperson SAZF Cape Council As we start this new year of 2021 and a new era for The mission of the SAZF is to B a r n e y Singer, the South African Zionist protect and promote Israel in South Africa. We do this Milton Gerdis Federation (Cape Council) and Brian begins, it is particularly by educating the Jewish and broader South African Josselowitz. symbolic that we recently also B a r n e y celebrated Tu B’Shvat, the community about Israel and was the New Year of the trees, a day establishing projects that Chairman of of ecological awareness and promote Israel in South Africa. the SAZF CC sustainability. We focus on strengthening the – formally bond between South African W e s t e r n he strength of an organisation Jews and Israel and building P r o v i n c e Tlies in its ability to evolve, and ties with our South African Zionist at this time of new beginnings and Friends of Israel to continue to Council – fresh vision, I am reminded of the from 1980-1984. He later became care for and preserve the environment. build and create relationships Talmudic story (Ta’anit 23b), of Choni the Vice President of the SA Zionist Israel has excelled at cultivating the with the broader South African HaMa’agal, who asked an old man Federation. Milton was a member land and in our lifetime we have seen community. planting a carob tree if he expected of the SAZF CC. Management the desert literally bloom. The Jewish to live 70 more years to see it bear s the newly appointed Committee and served on various people have always, even in the most fruit. The man replied that just as Chairperson of the SAZF Cape Committees and portfolios. Brian destitute of times, generously given A he inherited a world of trees planted Council, I am committed and inspired was a critical member of the SAZF towards the cultivation of the land by his fore-fathers, he too plants to take on this critical role. Together CC Media Committee who wrote of Israel and this continues through trees for his children. Connecting with our newly appointed Executive prolifically on behalf of Israel. the planting of trees and the work the past to our collective future is Director Chaya Singer I believe We honour these men for their of the JNF. Jewish tradition fully the essence of Jewish continuity together we can ensure a strong, commitment and dedication and acknowledges the environment with and in my view, the core mandate of dynamic and visionary team of both wish their families Long Life. Their many laws pertaining to farming Jewish communal institutions. At the lay-leadership and a committed memories will most definitely be a and the preservation particularly of SAZF Cape Council, we are planting professional staff to take the SAZF to blessing. Baruch Dayan HaEmet. fruit trees, and on Tu B’Shvat Jews a renewed vision as we endeavour the next level – watch this space! to strengthen our work by applying around the world traditionally honour In the short time since I was elected long-term thinking and strategy. It the 7 Species of fruit of the land of There is a focused commitment as Chair I have had the opportunity is imperative that our organisation Israel with a special seder. to bring added value and create to meet and engage with key new opportunities for our Zionist stakeholders, consultants, the embodies the world leading Israel of Tu B’Shevat is a reminder to us of community and other communities Israeli trade officer Mr Amit Lev as today that is at the forefront of cutting- the importance of planting for the who remain committed to building well as the Israeli Ambassador to edge innovation and international next generation and ensuring a broader and deep relationships both South Africa Lior Keinan. All these development. fruitful and prosperous future, even within South Africa as well as with engagements and conversations in times of uncertainty. At the SAZF Planting trees is a core ecological Israel and its partners. have been encouraging, productive Cape Council we are committed effort of Israel, as embodied by our and indicate a positive continuation to doing just that through our work 2020 has been one of many struggles, affiliate organisation, the Jewish of the strengthening of these critical and involvement in the community, hardship and fear as we have been National Fund. Since 1900 about 250 ties. million trees have been planted across and beyond. In celebration of Tu forced to adapt to a new COVID-19 Israel and it is the only country in the B’Shvat, we are establishing a joint world. This pandemic has forced us to Today, Israel is a country of world that ended the 20th century JNF/ SA Friends of Israel (SAFI) face a new normal which has brought excellence, innovation, insight, with more trees than it had 100 years sustainable food garden project with so many painful losses for so many of diversity and in just the last few prior. In 1948 approximately 2% of a comprehensive irrigation system in us. We are so saddened at the amount months has normalised relations Israel was covered in trees. This has a local underprivileged area. Trees of deaths and trauma experienced by with countries we never would increased exponentially and today symbolise a healthy and sustainable so many in our community, and to have believed possible. As a truly roughly 8.5% of Israel is covered in environment, qualities that we seek those that have lost loved ones we exceptional winning nation and from trees. to emulate in our work to secure a acknowledge and send our deepest my own personal perspective nothing stronger Israel, a prosperous South condolences for the lives lost to this makes me prouder! Judaism carries with it an Africa and a healthier world. pandemic. Three such people include environmental ethic and a charge to Am Israel Chai

Please sign the following petition and be their voice - https://www.change.org/o/free_avera_and_hisham_south_africa_2

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Diller Cape Town: meet the staff! Spreading the light of Chanukah Diller Cape Town is proud The South African government, to highlight the staff African Zionist hoping that our members that ensure the Federation, in government would programme runs smoothly partnership be cognisant of the throughout the year. with the Jewish recent developments in the Middle East he Diller programme relies Agency for Israel with the normalisation Ton its staff members to and the Jewish deals between Israel, provide social support, engaging Report, hosted Arab countries and content and assistance in a meaningful beyond to North all logistical elements of the Community Africa. They noted programme. This year we Chanukah Chaya Singer lighting the the shift in the region have a powerhouse staff team Celebration on channukiah and challenged our consisting of Junior Counsellors 13 December via government to take a Rachel Rod and Julia Kaimowitz Zoom. lead and be an honest broker in the and student intern Talia Scher. negotiations towards peace. They eople tuned in from all over the said it was time for SA to decide if it Rachel Rod and Julia Kaimowitz world for the celebration of unity wants to be a partner and a positive completed their fellowship year P JULIA KAIMOWITZ and solidarity on the 4th night of force in the changing region. in Cohort 5 (2019-2020), and Chanukah. It was a great opportunity although the year proved to guidance, advice, love and support to spread the light of Chanukah and Candle lighting was done by special be turbulent with many obstacles, from my own JC’s, I decided I wanted celebrate the miracle of the survival guests including Warren Goldstein — both Rachel and Julia proved their to do that and give that to the next of the Jewish people – in ancient Chief Rabbi of South Africa, Shaun commitment and dedication to the cohort.” — Julia times and today! It was also an Zagnoev — Chairman SA Jewish programme with their outstanding Board of Deputies, Chaya Singer What was the highlight of your opportunity to enjoy the incredible ability to remain enthusiastic and music of Yudi Cohen, internationally — Executive Director SA Zionist grow through the various workshops Diller experience as a fellow: renowned chazzan and opera singer. Federation — Cape Council and and educational experiences. Let’s Adina Roth — Jewish educator with get to know our Junior Counsellors, “Definitely Leadership Shabbaton. Special guests included Yair Lapid, B’tocham Education. Rachel Rod and Julia Kaimowitz. It gave me a chance to explore my Chairman of the Yesh Atid party and strengths and weaknesses when leader of the opposition in Israel, Chaya Singer gave an inspiring Why did you want to be a working in a group, as well as the and Isaac Herzog, Chairman of message of hope, highlighting the Junior Counsellor? opportunity to showcase all that I had the Jewish Agency for Israel. Both spirit of the Jewish people through learnt so far in Diller!” — Rachel shared some personal reflections the ages. She said, ‘Tonight, “I wanted to experience Diller from Jewish families in South Africa and “When we planned Leadership on Chanukah and sent warm words a new perspective, as well as to around the world, unite to light the Shabbaton, it was beyond exciting. of encouragement and friendship to positively impact the new fellows’ menorah, symbol of hope, emblem I learnt so much about myself and the Jewish community here in South experiences and help guide them of the State of Israel, and we take others and these learnings are Africa. through the programme.” — Rachel strength during this time of isolation, something I think about every day.” Both Israeli dignitaries also had in commemorating our resilience as “I was receiving a huge amount of — Julia strong messages for the South a nation”. An update from our youth movements Our youth movements have done a remarkable job navigating COVID waters and have managed to keep their movements afloat with their flexibility and creativity. As we move into this new year, the different movements share some thoughts and insights.

Habonim Netzer

nfortunately, we had fter a difficult 2020 and as we Uto cancel our day Abegin a new year, we would like Bnei Akiva camps and could no longer to highlight and reaffirm Netzer’s share December with our four main pillars that make up our hassidus gives us an explanation as to the deeper channichim. The newly elected movement. It is important that we are Cmeaning of tests and challenges in life. It says Habonim leadership have been working hard cemented in these pillars as they make up the very that the word ‘L’sanos’ means ‘to test’. “L’sanos” also to make sure Habonim Dror in 2021 is as essence of Netzer. means ‘to raise higher’. How incredible is that! The active as possible (whether it be online or in Progressive Judaism – Because we are Jews, we are tests and challenges that Hashem gives us provides person) and safe for our chaverim. Although Progressive Jews us an amazing opportunity to grow and rise up to reach the first half of 2021 is looking to be similar to our spiritual heights. The year of 2020 was a difficult Reform Judaism – Because we are Progressive 2020, we are making sure that Habonim will be test for us all. Some of us struggled and some of us Jews, we are Reform Zionists active in all our chaverims lives. We are taking overcame our challenges. As we begin this new year, the lessons learned in 2020 and ensuring that Tikkun Olam – A world that we are perfecting Bnei Akiva Cape Town wishes for the whole Cape there will be plenty of fun and engagement for Youth Empowerment – Because we are a Youth Town Jewish Community to have a year of success, channichim of all ages and our bogrim. Movement we strive to empower the youth. joy and love; and to see challenges overcome!

Find us SA Zionist Federation - Cape Council @SAZF_Cape @sazfcapecouncil www.sazfcape.co.za back to contents 14 Cape Jewish Chronicle February 2021 Webinars on the COVID-19 vaccination for South African Olim, featuring South African Olim

Soon after Israeli PM Benjamin were eased community is faced with. thanks to the Netanyahu received the Arnie and Roni Witkin knowledge and country’s first Pfizer COVID-19 were on holiday in Cape professionalism vaccination, Telfed hosted Town when they received a of our guest a virtual community panel message from their health speakers. discussion to answer questions care provider that they from the ex-SA community in As Israel were eligible to schedule Israel. continued to make appointments for their first international COVID-19 vaccinations. hree South African-born doctors, headlines due to Following their mandatory TDr Carron Sher (a paediatrician the efficiency of Corona tests, they booked with Clalit Health Fund), Dr Rhona the vaccination their appointments at Bagraim (a family doctor with Maccabi rollout, questions the Maccabi vaccination Health Fund) and Dr Gail Loon- were raised facility in Herzliya in central Lustig (former head of Home Care for over mutations Israel. ‘Again, a model Maccabi in central Israel) addressed and whether of efficiency and making the community on the pertinent topic: COVID-19 can you feel welcome,’ wrote “What you need to know about the be entirely Arnie. ‘There were around COVID-19 vaccination in Israel”. eliminated. Once 15 stations and a The doctors offered explanations again, Telfed supervisor directing on how the vaccinations work, the had the unique people to their stations. importance of vaccinating on an Telfed CEO Dorron Kline received his COVID-19 vaccination from nurse opportunity to Abu Sbeh Jameel at Leumit in Beit Shemesh, Israel. We were taken as soon as individual, national and international host a community we arrived, the explanation level and why we should avoid fake webinar with a South African-born committees including the Committee of what to expect was to the point and news. They shared practical advice expert in the field of epidemiology. on the Control of Epidemics and the the jab painless. There was a sense on how to schedule an appointment On Sunday 17 January, Professor Committee on Measles, Rubella of urgency — “we really need to get in Israel. Dr Gail Loon-Lustig, a Manfred Green (a Director at Haifa and Polio Eradication (which he this done.”’ It’s not just veteran Olim graduate of UCT, added that it was University’s School of Public Health) heads). Drawing on the experiences who are receiving their vaccinations. ‘a huge privilege to be sitting with spoke about the ability to eradicate learned from the eradication Following the mandatory quarantine my two colleagues from UCT. I have COVID-19 now that we have a vaccine. of smallpox, and international period and initial bureaucratic steps, great pride in that. And this has Another UCT graduate, Professor programmes to eliminate polio and our newest Olim have joined other not happened in 40 years.’ There Green is a founding director of the measles, Professor Green spoke Israelis in rolling up their sleeves and was an overwhelming response to Israel Centre for Disease Control and about the long-term challenges and getting vaccinated. the webinar, and many concerns currently sits on government advisory opportunities that the international

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back to contents Cape Jewish Chronicle February 2021 15

Consider This

Audacious Hospitality

By Rabbi Greg Alexander Coronavirus has opened up as different gender from them. Also for differently abled as good as it the basis of their diversity, equality much as it has shut down. those with sensitivities around body could be. and inclusivity (DEI) strategies, image or a history of abuse or who to help identify the steps needed We reached out to our sister nd one of the things that have are gender non-conforming. Our to become a community rooted in congregations in the USA who have Abeen highlighted to the world bathrooms also have wheelchair principles of DEI. At the end of 2020 already done some work in this regard, is how so much of the society that access making it available to all we assembled a working group of and who launched a campaign they we lived in daily pre-COVID was congregants to use. synagogue staff and members to have termed “Audacious Hospitality”. founded on the privilege of the few begin working on the assessment as We found much that was positive and Audacious Hospitality is rooted in and excluded the vast majority. In a way of identifying current areas of commendable. We also found much the belief that we will be a stronger, South Africa we have known this concern and also creating a vision of that still needed to be done. Our more vibrant Jewish community for ever and despite nearly three the type of community that we would synagogue has already done much when we fully embrace the diversity decades of democratic government like to be. we still see how divided our country work to empower Jewish women. that is the reality of modern Jewish is into those who can and have and Our leadership boards and councils life. There is more than one authentic As I write this at the beginning of those who can’t and don’t. are populated by women and men, way to be Jewish and diversity is an 2021, I look forward not just to the and we currently have one female essential component to making our process that will continue this year, This lockdown made it all the more rabbi (Rabbi Emma Gottlieb) and communities whole. but to the decades of benefit that important that we use this time to two student rabbis (Andrea Kuti and will come from the work done now. They have developed an auditing look inward at how we can be part of Sofia Zway) in our community. And May we all be (safely) audaciously tool that evaluates a synagogue on the solutions and even more urgently yet, if you ask the majority of people hospitable in 2021. how we ourselves are part of the in Cape Town to describe a rabbi, problem. Temple Israel has led the they will still tell you it is a man with Jewish community for more than a beard. 75 years in open, welcoming Judaism and so it was the right time to turn the We used the BLM (Black Lives spotlight on ourselves and see just Matter) protests as an inspiration to how open and welcoming our own begin an internal investigation into congregation is. We began a process how our community makes Jews of actively auditing our congregation of Colour and their families feel at with regard to equality, diversity and our services, in our buildings and inclusivity, and this is what we found: passing through our security and found that there was much work that We can rightly be proud of how our still needed to be done there. Jews-by-Choice programme has opened the doors of Judaism to so And while all three of our campuses many seekers. Our classes are filled allow for wheelchair access there each year with people who long to is still much to be done to make be part of Am Yisrael, and we are the experience of those who are the doorway in. Our Pride Shabbat and LGBTQI+ outreach has made clear to the Jewish community that who you love is your choice and that the Jewish people is made up of individuals and families of all orientations. We have reached out to the many different faith traditions in Cape Town to join forces, speak with one voice where possible and partner on issues of mutual concern, and at the same time to reassure interfaith couples and families that their Jewish home is in our shul. Recognising that gender is not binary but fluid, we set in motion a process to ensure that all three of our campuses in Cape Town have gender-neutral bathrooms. Our Torah teaches us that every person is born with dignity and humanity, and that includes their gender expression. We practice that belief by creating welcoming and inclusive spaces, and the bathroom is a major part of that. This is important for parents or caregivers whose children are a different gender from them, and for people with caregivers or personal attendants who are a

back to contents 16 Cape Jewish Chronicle February 2021 Cape Jewish Seniors Association DIRECTOR: Diana Sochen 021 434 9691 [email protected] ADMIN: Amanda 021 434 9691 [email protected] search CJSA on Facebook A new year with new ideas for CJSA seniors Who would have thought that table for Cape Town. are now going to increase this offering with each social on a beautiful summer’s day, Even though there were no end- worker hosting their own in magnificent Cape Town, of-year parties or New Year’s Eve branch meeting, regular with its wonderful shoreline celebrations, CJSA thought ‘out Yiddish sessions, a knitting and many open spaces for the box’ with Diana and Ivor Joffe group and craft sessions, collaborating to ensure that no socialising and relaxing that quizzes and movie/ book one need to be lonely on the last the majority of law abiding club reviews plus other night of the year. Ivor produced, people would be listening to topics, so there will certainly organised and provided our State President’s orders of be something a spectacular Zoom staying indoors and observing of interest concert with wonderful lockdown protocols in order to for everyone. musicians singing and A weekly stay safe? doing what they do best, notice of the February 2020: Paula Baskir, Social Worker entertaining. There ur social workers continue to be programme will Monique Nieuwenhuys, Rita Wagenheim, Julia were over 400 people Petersen and Hilda Sandak-Lewin at the end of Ovigilant about keeping in touch be distributed entertained and able year lunch in Southern Suburbs with all of our members, regularly via email so to enjoy a sense of fun offering support, a listening ear make sure CJSA Executive who both recently and celebration in the and assistance while our office you have 2021 diaries passed on. Benny Schlosberg safety of their homes. administrator has provided an to keep up to date with joined the committee when CJSA It was uplifting what we have to offer. opened the doors in the late 1980’s and although and Chaired the organisation and we were all October 2019: Philip We welcome our new became a Trustee. Tania Jacobson in separate Todres, Rochele Winer and Sea Point social worker was a committed member, Chairman locations, we Sybil Castle Rebecca Yoko who has and committee member for a number all felt that ‘met’ many members on of years and we wish their families we were in the company Zoom and looks forward to working and loved ones Long Life, and thank of friends. The choice of with all of us. them for their commitment to Seniors. performers was perfect and I am sure that you join the addition of Finally, even though we are not us in wishing a hearty the messages meeting in person, we are still mazaltov to three by the various providing a service to our seniors. No members who have community one should have the need to be alone recently celebrated leaders or lonely, while they are at home. their 100th Birthdays, added a real The seven Welfare groups under all thank goodness in November 2019: Jenny Dinsdale, Wendy Johnston, special touch the Jewish Care Cape umbrella are good health. Happy Rifka Luyt, Audrey Shantal, Reina Bristow, Merle to the event. providing a wonderful service to Thompson, TIna Philipps and Maureen Lurie birthday to Ettie Buch, the whole community and we offer enjoying an outing We are now Manne Stern and Rita our sincere thanks to all emergency beginning Blum. Hopefully we will services and CSO for keeping us incredible service telephonically a new year and be able to celebrate safe and being there for us 24/7. to everyone who calls — even unfortunately will not fully in the near future. throughout the leave period whilst be meeting back at With sadness we the office was closed between our centres in the remember two Christmas and New Year. foreseeable future. November 2019: Doreen Fiansky members of the As a team we realise enjoying a craft morning in Diana Sochen. Our Shabbat meals to our homebound Sea Point and infirm members, as well as the that we need to think community, continued throughout creatively in order the festive season thanks to Berkies to provide ongoing services to our Social and Personal service and our wonderful volunteers members. Zoom is the way to go and who availed themselves each week. we are endeavouring to get as many Wishes of Mazaltov to our Our condolences to members Even though over 100 people were people onto this platform as possible. members who recently celebrated who have recently lost loved ones the following: Shiela Burland — Husband alone in their own homes, there could Currently we are offering Ageless Birth Hilary Osrin — Brother be a sense of being part of a caring Grace exercises twice a week and Gillian Cress — Grandson Audrey Shantall — Brother in law community, with each one receiving a weekly Zoom Pop In with a guest Shirley Kellner — Great Grandson CJSA expresses condolences to a similar meal and being able to feel speaker, or very popular concert. We that there was one huge Shabbat Stella and Errol Kope — Grandson the families of our members who Barmitzvah/Batmitzvah have recently passed away Henny Bernstein — Great Grandson Irving Freeman Roy and Vonnie Bernstein Chai (Livey) Herman — Grandson Reina Hurwitz Merle Rubin — Granddaughter Tania Jacobson Martin Margolis Special Birthdays Bennie Schlosberg Ettie Buch, Mannie Stern and Rita Blum 100th Birthdays CJSA welcomes new members Lionel and Karen Fig Many of our members are unwell Hirschel Ginsberg due to having contracted the Monty and Lola Gold COVID-19 virus. We hold them in Desiree Katz our prayers and wish them all a Ian and Dalene Morris speedy recovery to full health. Emanuel Stern February 2020: Sea Point members enjoying a morning at Little Streams restaurant PROFESSIONAL STAFF: Sea Point: 021 434 9691; Milnerton: Hajiera Safidien–Maloon 021 555 1736; S/Suburbs: Monique Nieuwenhuys 021 761 7960; W/Coast: Stacey Melmed 074 405 5186 back to contents Cape Jewish Chronicle February 2021 17 From page 1 Friends of UJC 12th annual year-end event goes online

arco Van MEmbden, Chairman of the Friends and the David Susman Community Foundation (DSCF), addressed the guests and shared the Friends remarkable 12 year journey. The main focus of the annual Friends event is to raise funds for the DSCF and to celebrate Jewish Life in the Mother City. This foundation was Alan Winde, Western Cape Premier and Marco van Embden, established in 2007, Chairman, Friends of the UJC Cape Town at Leeuwenhof The crew prepares to go live with great foresight, as a financial safeguard against any unforeseen adverse events our community may face in the future. The COVID-19 pandemic was just such an event and 2020 marked the first time that it was called upon to aid Dani Bitton, Sea Point songstress sang a the community in a MC, Africa Melane who presented on the Nik Rabinowitz entertained the crowd touching rendition of Halleluja significant manner night and tied the event together on many levels. The DSCF’s Board of Trustees approved a disbursal from the fund in support of the COVID-19 Emergency Campaign launched in Cape Town to assist our communal institutions and Carina Rubin-Frankal spoke about her help them cover experience as producer of My Octopus the additional and Teacher and her connection to the Cape ongoing costs Lawrence Kaplan sent a Friends greeting from Town Jewish Community forced upon them by Dori Weil sent greetings to the Friends, Connecticut COVID-19 pandemic. from Johannesburg We thank our patrons, friends, donors and loyal supporters for standing with us and sharing our vision for a stronger, more resilient community. Their support allowed us to answer the call Hilton and Gail Nowitz sent wishes to the Andrea Kerzner sent greetings and best to action when wishes from New York to the Friends Arnold and Joceline Basserabie sent wishes to Friends from Atlanta, Georgia it came. the Friends from Johannesburg We would like to make special mention of and thank our generous annual sponsor Investec, who have supported us since inception 12 years ago. For more information on the Friends of the UJC Cape Town contact Robyn Slot on [email protected] or call +27 21 464 6700 Choni G performed a cover of Weeping, originally by Dan Heymann The Cape Minstrels opened the evening's entertainment with a local rendition of Havenu Shalom Aleichem back to contents 18 Cape Jewish Chronicle February 2021 Top Cape Town educator recognised in global awards

Steve Sherman, synonymous with out-the-box teaching This worked out as I had 1200 methods and maths lessons that bring real understanding as students from all over the world well as endless fits of giggles to children in our community, was signing up. When we launched our announced the winner for South Africa in the AKS Global teacher ‘for pay’ model, we manage to secure awards. a small fraction of this. The goal is to build these numbers so that I can grow he CJC caught up with him just before the start of the new school year to livingmaths.com into an international Tfind out more about his work and his incredible commitment to life-long programme that can be run from learning. anywhere in the world. When people saw what I was doing online they took “As a teacher, I don’t expect thanks, I don’t teach to win prizes and I also don’t notice. I was fortunate to give a Tedx expect to retire rich! When your skills are recognised and you are placed in talk as well as receive the Global the same company as some of the best teachers in the world, I won’t lie it Teacher Award – in recognition for my does feel incredible,” said Steve. work. I believe that COVID-19 will still Can you take us back to the first quarter of last year — when the be around for the first half of 2021 so enormity of COVID-19 was beginning to sink in. As a teacher, I will continue to build my online work and find innovative ways to collaborate what went through your mind and how did you adapt to what is with international partners. now our ‘new normal’ There must have been some challenges moving to teaching My circumstances were a little different. I am not affiliated to just one school. virtually. Do any amusing stories stand out? I provide extramurals to many schools. When COVID-19 arrived, safety Teaching virtually is easy for me – I have over 10 years’ experience but for the protocols meant that I was no longer able to run classes at all of my schools. students and parents it was new territory. Not everyone is used to muting and Effectively, I became unemployed. It’s not a place that anyone wants to be unmuting. Not everyone is used to the fact that a camera and mic is on in their in, but I knew that if I sat around and waited for opportunities they would not kitchen or lounge. I have so many amusing stories about parents that have arrive on my doorstep. Fortunately for me, I have been in the online space for walked past the camera with their underwear on, as well as face masks of the past decade so I have a skillset that I could tap into. I began offering free the mud variety, and my favourite is when the parents crawl along the floor to online classes to students around the world. I needed to change my business avoid being noticed but can still be seen. I have had some parents that have model to online and I a) wanted to identify the best software to do the job and spoken about interesting things not realising the mics were unmuted and we b) to build an audience. have also had the occasional background farts that were not only audible but pre-schoolers are not shy to name and shame their own flesh and blood. CHRONIC ADS Have there been any unintended or unexpected benefits? A teaching programme like mine is tied to the personality of its teachers. If Rates: R50 per line incl VAT Phone: 021 464 6736 (mornings) you have dynamic teachers and they make a connection with students then 80% of the battle has been won. If I want to expand our programme to other BECK ‘N CALL SORT IT provinces or countries, then finding those types of teachers is not a simple Shuttle and airport transfers. Downsizing home? Retirement move? task. Taking livingmaths online means we are now international and I can do Avail 24/7. Covering the peninsula. Kids leaving home? Deceased the teaching. This makes life a lot easier. Other benefits would be that we Air cond vehicle. 072 252 6989 estate? Organising, sorting, disposing began offering additional services like virtual birthday parties (no catering, no one hangs around when the party ends and no cleaning up! You get a CARER/NURSE AID of books, household effects, etc. 083 265 7738 recording of the party and screen shots – all from the comfort of your home!). Reliable honest lady, 15 years’ Apart from the virtual parties, we have been running corporate team building experience seeks Mon to Fri, day BLINDS quizzes, scavenger hunts and Bingo and these have been going very well! duty. Can cook. Refs avail. Valencia Contact Elaine’s Blinds for all new Due to the online nature, clients come from all over the world. Most of the 073 143 3647 / 082 469 2992. blinds, servicing, repairs and cleaning. best conferences around the world are virtual – I have had the opportunity PALM GARDEN, SEA POINT Stephen and Elaine Guinsberg to attend and present and quite a few conferences over the past year that I 083 270 9352 would never have been able to attend. Luxury Retirement Living. 1 Bed flat rent/buy. Furn/unfurn. Balcony Air JOFFE PLUMBING Tell us a bit about your AKS Global teacher award nomination con, en-suite shower/toilet, bic’s, For all sanitary plumbing repairs, and win. lounge / dining area, separate kitchen maintenance and renovations. Phone and toilet. Close to shops, on bus Hilton 082 789 2897 or 021 439 5550 There are 2 major international teacher prizes on offer. The Global Teacher Prize (with a prize of $1 million) and the Global Teacher Award (a gorgeous route. Care facilities, pool. R2 795 000 NAMLOK TREE FELLING or R21 000 p/m. Mia 079 942 8996. certificate). Cutting, trimming etc. I was short-listed for the Global Teacher prize but sadly did not make the top RELIABLE PET/HOUSESITTER Darryl 082 353 6429 50. Then news came in that I was nominated for the Global Teacher Award Mature single guy. Excellent refs. MAZAL MOTORS and discovered that I was announced as a winner for South Africa. They select Short/long term. Keith 084 604 1194 the ‘best’ teachers from 110 countries. While I work with the department of Email: [email protected] Leon Levitt — Maintenance and repairs to all types of vehicles. Try us. education and I know and like many of the officials, I am still an outsider – this TRANSFER VHS TO DVD/MP4 Ph 021 797 1550 or 082 410 2756 means I am automatically excluded for all the national teacher competitions Barry 082 885 7548 as I am not registered with SACE. Due to the pandemic and the focus on [email protected] online teaching, my online work received recognition by global organisations DIGITISE YOUR PHOTOS and because of the digital nature of my work, they can see what I do To place a chronic ad Save, store and organise your email: [email protected] photos digitally. Scan 35 mm film, pics and slides. Steve 082 856 4235 Follow the Chronicle online [email protected]

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back to contents Cape Jewish Chronicle February 2021 19 A view from the bar Can you be forced to vaccinate?

By Anton Katz COVID-19 has and will continue has been and will be debated in many constitutes a danger to the lives of Supreme Court ruled against COVID to bring many challenges to, countries, as vaccine-skepticism is others the Constitution makes clear anti-vaxxers. It ruled that no law and indeed changes to the laws certainly not limited to South Africa. that it is reasonable and justifiable may order citizens to be taken to for their rights to be limited by the receive the vaccine by force; but and their implementation. As far as South African law is law. Is it reasonable and justifiable laws may require a restriction of concerned to what extent, directly or n normal times it is the legislature for the law to compel, and in so doing rights if citizens fail to demonstrate indirectly, can government compel who make the law and the violate rights, every person to obtain they have been vaccinated - like not I individuals to be vaccinated against executive (the government) which a COVID-19 vaccination? being allowed to file for a benefit or the COVID-19 or any other virus implements the laws. The judicial being banned from entering a place against their will? And what about There are, of course, many different branch (the courts) rule on the limits or enrolling at a public school. In the the private sector — can private ways the government could compel of the exercise of the legislative and same ruling, the court decided that medical aid schemes deny benefits vaccinations. The most draconian is executive powers. And the courts parents or guardians of children and to those who refuse consent to be to criminalise the failure/refusal to get determine whether constitutional adolescents must vaccinate their vaccinated or reward those who do vaccinated; it would be committing a rights have been violated by the children. Vaccines against potentially get vaccinated? crime on pain of criminal sanction laws enacted by life-threatening diseases such as May parents force to not be vaccinated. Another parliament and/ measles and meningitis have long In order to achieve herd their children to be harsh measure could be to require or their manner been mandatory for children in Brazil immunity, medical vaccinated; and individuals to remain at home of execution by and the Court dismissed a separate experts have estimated can adult children until and unless they have been the government. case seeking to free parents from that require their elderly vaccinated. Leaving home without But our pandemic that at least 40 million in obligation due to religious beliefs. parents to obtain being vaccinated would constitute dominated lives are South Africa will need to vaccinations — a criminal offence. What about the not normal times be injected. My sense is that the courts in and what about millions of social grant recipients — — it has been the South Africa will follow a similar spouses? What could they be denied their grants if government that line to that of the Brazil court. But in about the labour environment they refuse? have been making the laws, which response to any court challenge the — could an employer require its government will need to prove by way govern individual’s rights. And the A less serious measure, I suppose, employees to get a vaccination or of solid evidence that the challenged government does so with limited, which could probably satisfy the lose their employment, and may measures it has imposed have if any consultation at all, with the reasonable and justifiable standard it depend on alleged operational backed up by scientific evidence. public. And the courts have generally could be for government to provide requirements? With proof of the factual reason for been taking a hands-off approach. access to free health care only to the violation of rights challenges may The courts have allowed all manner Other questions arise, such as those who have been vaccinated. well succeed. of violations of rights by the what role, if any, does a legitimate In December 2020, the Brazil government — they have deferred to religious objection to being the executive as to how best to deal vaccinated play in the debate. And with the spread of COVID-19. Thus, could health care workers, doctors when the government has banned and nurses for example, refuse tobacco, alcohol, limited exercise to treat those who have not been hours, set curfews, banned the sale vaccinated or could they refuse to Please support of hot food and prohibited beach- administer vaccinations. What about going the courts have not interfered the immigration laws? Could Home and not upheld challenges to the Affairs ban the entry into South Africa the Chronicle! regulations. Many of those who are complex human not able to prove rights and other Could Home Affairs ban they have been VOLUNTARY SUBSCRIPTIONS issues arise. the entry into South Africa vaccinated? of those who are not able The rights to In Spain, for FOR 2021 NOW DUE freedom of to prove they have been example, there movement, choose vaccinated? is speculation a trade, occupation of not allowing or profession, unvaccinated education and access to health care people into concerts or football VOLUME 37 No 11 Help us continue DECEMBER Home Is Where the Art 2020/JANUAR Is – an exhibition services are at stake. Insurance Y 2021 games. And schools: could schools, by and for Capetonians at Zeitz MOCAA www.cjc.org.za to bring you Like many museums claims and other commercial and galleries, the private or government, bar children Zeitz MOCAA has Shining a light been closed for most works of art and over in a time of crisis news from the of 2020. 1800 pieces were concerns are directly impacted by not vaccinated? What about care included for COVID-19 shifted fter seven long Where the Art IsHome Is our world in Amonths without a way no-one visitors, curators launched the participating artists,. Of could have whatever government action is taken Cape Town a unique exhibition to more than 100 belong facilities for older persons — may to the Cape Town anticipated. celebrate its reopening and to honour and Jewish Community Businesses welcome back guests – which, while wonderful, closed, jobs were or not taken. An obvious example is specifically, Capetonians. unfortunately renders lost, people they evacuate residents who are not acknowledgement of Jewish An open call was made have had to dig for submissions of art each of them impossible deep to find in this piece. ‘made, owned and loved’ their edge both the roll out of vaccines. A question is by Capetonians. Sheryl Schkolne with her ceramic vessels, vaccinated? Cape Floral Kingdom (2014) Participants were given personally and Community The response was overwhelming, and the a five-day period in professionally. Museum received thousands of entries. October during which pieces. Seven drop-off points around the Lee Jaffe — Gorgeous Gourmet Ultimately, more than 1600 artists submitted they could drop off their fter a very can government enjoy a monopoly city (comprising art centres, art schools, Achallenging year, local entrepreneur Richard Goldstein galleries and the like) were made available approached Staffwise about shining a ray of light on our Like all law, the starting point is For more from just some of theto makeartists thego toprocess page 29 accessible for all. community. And so, spotlight businesses inThe our Shining community Light who Award have managed on the import and manufacture of to rise up and show, through resilience and out-of-the-box came about, to Impactful story of Progressive Jewry thinking, what they can achieve in a time of crisis. They the Constitution. The Constitution adapted, evolved or made positive adjustments to keep their vaccinations? R350 told in new SAJM exhibition businesses afloat. Staffwise and ORT Jet Cape Town jumped at the opportunity protects every person’s right to to collaborate and make it happen. Lisa Sandler from ORT Jet said: “After some reflection we thought it would be a wonderful opportunity to showcase innovation and opportunity Ground Breakers: A with businesses from our community who have pivoted to I think it can safely be suggested bodily integrity, which includes the History of Progressive get through the lockdown.” Liat Beinart, Staffwise’s Career Judaism in South Catalyst said it was an exciting opportunity for the two communal organisations “to complement and collaborate and Africa will be on let this initiative take shape”. large numbers of South Africans right to security in and control over display at the SA SNAPSCAN ZAPPER Jewish MuseumEFT from Inspired by Goldstein’s idea, generous donors from the 14 December. community recognised the space for rewarding local businesses who took steps to stay afloat during COVID-19. he exhibition is based are reluctant to be administered the their body. And the right to freedom “Despite initial reservations to this award,” says Caroline Ton the research of Irwin Manoim, from the Kaimowitz, of Staffwise, “we had a fantastic response from Kaplan Centre forBANK Jewish the community”. DETAILS: Initial reservations were about the sensitivity of rewarding and highlighting businesses when it was such a Rabbis Sherman and Weiler at the opening of Temple David, Durban Studies at UCT, who has COVID-19 vaccine. In order to achieve of conscience, religion, thought tough year fraught with personal and financial difficulties. “But in 1951 just published a book on the subject, this proved to be unfounded as we received so much positivity Inside the Tent MavericksCape and the number Jewish of applications – almost 50 – was beyond our herd immunity, medical experts have . expectations”, added Caroline. belief and opinion is also protected. DID YOU KNOW: For more see page 8 Chronicle Trust estimated that at least 40 million in There can be no doubt that forced 3832 5.3k Continues on page 37 Followers % Website Visits 73 Cape Town in October www.cjc.org.za 2020 22% Standard Bank South Africa will need to be injected. vaccinations violate rights. Yet that is 900 Johannesburg Followers 4980 % Other 65+ 23.5% 1st of Month 5 provinces 45-54 16% Acc:55-64 19%070 703Email 493 Readers by Region 35-44 16% So, the question arises: can people 25-34 18% Subscribers 1844 not the end of the debate. 18-24 7.5% Readers by Age Mid Month To subscribe email: be forced to obtain a vaccination? Branch: [email protected] 909 The World Health Organisation has Freedom is two-way street: each indicated that it does not support person lives in a community with Please use your name and email as payment reference. forced vaccinations. The question others. So, if one person’s conduct

back to contents 20 Cape Jewish Chronicle February 2021 Using my Nudel Immigrants — they get the job done

By Craig Nudelman Shelley Trope-Friedman elected Some of you may recognise This is because, new President of WIZO SA the title of this article from Lin he explains, the Manuel-Miranda’s Hamilton, a average family income for these BZA WIZO Cape Town is delighted to groundbreaking musical about announce the appointment of Shelley an immigrant who became a students is lower than those of parents Trope-Friedman as new President of US founding father. born in America. WIZO South Africa. owever, while Hamilton Also, many live in o stranger to community work and a Hreferences a time hundreds of neighbourhoods Npassionate Zionist, Shelley comes from a years ago, these words still hold true that have high concentrations of long line of philanthropists, and proudly continues today. Immigrants, and the children childhood poverty. Yet, his research the legacy of her parents and grandparents, of immigrants generally tend to showed that many of these students having been involved in many local organisations outperform their peers who were born are doing remarkably well in school; including SAZF Cape Council, Glendale and in a country. Most notably, as I write a higher proportion of students ORT Western Cape, and remains on the Board of this on 20 January 2021, Kamala whose parents were not native ORT Jet and ORT Education. Harris, the daughter of a Jamaican to America performed marginally father and an Indian mother, was better. This despite the fact that Shelly said she hopes her personal passion inaugurated as Vice President of the these students’ parents were less and love for Israel will have a positive impact on United States of America. So why do likely to be contacted about learning WIZO SA. immigrants and their children tend or behavioural problems. “I see this as a chance for personal growth as to succeed? This example demonstrates the well as an opportunity to lead WIZO SA into the A person’s migration history makes will to succeed. Immigrants are far future. My dream is to help transform WIZO SA a big difference. The children of more willing to sacrifice for their into a powerful organisation that can hold its own parents who were born in a foreign children. Michael Ungar, writing amongst any of the more successful WIZO federations around the world.” country have a lot going against them. about resilience in Psychology Immediate Past President, Tamar Lazarus said: “We feel privileged to Nicholas Zill, writing for the Institute Today, states that immigrants show welcome Shelley as our new President of WIZO South Africa. Together with for Family Studies, investigated how grit and resourcefulness to gain the Vice-Presidents Barbara Flax and Helen Maisels-Trisk heading the newly these children perform in schools In motivation to succeed. Parents are elected Council, we have no doubt they will lead WIZO South Africa from the United States. One would think, determined that their children gain strength to strength”. he suggests, that academic success an education to become upwardly is proportionately representative to mobile. With higher expectations for living for themselves. They then has ever seen. His violation of the a student’s family’s income, stating their children, they ensure that their gave an opportunity to their children Constitution, his selfish interests, that success should be based on a children make a higher effort. to become professionals. It is our and his ineptitude of dealing with the child’s, “wealth, social class, ability Lingxin Hao, who authored a large generation (or perhaps those a little most devastating pandemic in history to go to schools with good teachers study on children of immigrants, younger than me) who need to buck has reserved his spot at the very and abundant resources, and writes that children of immigrants will the trend of the third generation bottom of the ranking. America has, ‘white privilege’”. This would make focus more in school and therefore losing their advantage in the world. in the last three days (18-20 January it seem very unlikely that a child of have a better relationship with their Perhaps the COVID pandemic will 2021), lost more people to COVID an immigrant would be successful. teachers. She states that, “teachers be the catalyst that stirs the younger than died in 9/11, the Iraq War and are somebody (…) they educate you, generation into showing show the War in Afghanistan combined. so you have to respect them”. Her ingenuity, entrepreneurship, risk Joe Biden now has the hard job of study showed that the children who taking, and self-sacrifice. rebuilding on the damages of his immigrate to the United States will predecessor — the economy, the outperform their native-born peers, On the American election virus, and a divided people. as well as their children. Interestingly, the advantage disappears when it In my column published in November Starting 2021 comes to the third generation. last year, I remarked how the 45th President of America, Donald Trump, It’s a brand-new year, and bizrat The downside to this, however, is was an example of a terrible manager. Hashem may it be a year where that the success of ‘the other’ can My column was not intended to diss we can all start living normally lead to locals becoming jealous, the Orange Menace. Instead, I was again. COVID-19 has struck the resulting in more pronouned anti- giving examples of what a manager community hard. Many loved ones immigrant or xenophobic rhetoric. should not do with employees. have unfortunately passed away; it There is no greater example of this However, I am happy to say that has indeed left a void which cannot than here in South Africa. We have we no longer have to deal with that be replaced. I wish all of you who a large immigrant population which is abomination of a leader. have experienced loss a long life and entrepreneurial and has a lower level sincere condolences. Let’s hope that His gross misconduct during office, of risk aversion, according to a 2018 the tide turns soon and that 2021 is culminating in a dramatic insurrection finding by the World Bank. The idea a year of growth and rejuvenation for at the US Capitol, has made him the that immigrants and refugees are us all. stealing locals’ jobs is unfounded, yet worst president the United States it still persists. In fact, the World Bank showed that between 1996-2011, immigrants in South Africa “had Follow the Chronicle online a positive impact on employment and wages for locals (…) with each immigrant worker generating approximately two jobs for citizens.” The idea of immigrants “getting the job done” is apparent in the South African Jewish story, too. Our ancestors came here from Eastern Click on your favourite social media site & visit our website. Europe with nothing and made a back to contents Cape Jewish Chronicle February 2021 21 Magnificient ancient mosaics of Israel

By Naama Barak Israel21C via JNS For such a small country, Israel ago. They were continuously created “In addition, there’s also the “First of all, you don’t preserve sure boasts a huge number of here through the 11th century, leaving information that appears in the material, you preserve values,” ancient mosaics — some 7000 us with documentation of Roman, inscriptions,” he says. “For example, he explains. “The conservation of of them, to be precise. Byzantine and early Arab culture in the mosaic discovered at Megiddo the mosaics preserves the values the area. Prison is probably the floor of the and information that constitutes nd those are just the ones that earliest church to have been found the mosaic and its archaeological “Mosaics have an artistic component have been discovered and in the world and is a very rich source context.” A that tells of life during a certain registered, with new archaeological of information, both technological period, about the mythology of the Originally, the mosaics’ condition digs or happy accidents regularly and artistic, as well as relaying time, and there’s also a very strong began to deteriorate once they were unearthing more ancient treasures. information about the way people element of aesthetics,” explains put into use, for example as floors lived in that time period.” The art of mosaics arrived in the Jacques Neguer, the head of the of buildings that were continuously Land of Israel from Rome around the Israel Antiquities Authority’s art How old is it? stepped on and eroded. That ancient time of Herod the Great 2000 years conservation department. condition was preserved for as long Neguer explains that the mosaics of as they were covered in earth. The the Land of Israel were influenced by real deterioration begins the moment the cultures surrounding it and the they are discovered and exposed to art coming from Egypt, Rome and people, climate change, vandalism, Byzantium. Distinct styles emerged pesticides and natural erosion. in different locations across the land. Neguer says, “Neglect is something Despite this great variety, many that’s very typical to digs across the of the mosaics shared similar word. The right thing to do is to cover qualities, patterns and styles over the the mosaics inside the earth once centuries — so much so that in many again after the digs.” cases it’s not possible to date the mosaics based only on the artwork. Endangered by time Archaeologists must make use of the Back in 1994, Neguer and the surrounding digs and inscriptions to Israel Antiquities Authority carried determine their age. out a survey on 100 sites out of “There are many mosaics with the 7000 (encompassing around geometrical patterns that get 30 000 square meters of mosaics) The fourth century mosaic at Severus Synagogue in Hamat Tiberias in northern repeated for hundreds of years. and determined that over 50% of Israel has three panels — one with Greek inscriptions of its donors’ names; another You can recognise the same style them were in danger. with a zodiac starring Greek sun god Helios dressed as a haloed emperor surrounded of mosaic that moves on from a by the star signs and four women symbolising the seasons; and another showing a Conservation efforts since then synagogue to a church and then to a tabernacle and other Jewish symbols. Photo by Reuven Riven. have reduced that number to around public building. It’s the same sort of 35%, with an additional composition that transfers to different 35% determined to be in good buildings,” Neguer says. condition and the remaining 30% in This repetition and transfer of style moderate condition. makes sense, he notes, since mosaic “We’ve worked very hard, for some 25 artistry was probably a profession years, to reach this stage,” Neguer says. passed down generations in a family. The 50 or so mosaics that are Being a mosaic artist paid pretty situated in national parks are being well: in Roman times, a mosaic team looked after and enjoy maintenance manager earned 150 dinars a day, and conservation work. The less while a carpenter on a Roman navy famous mosaics, and the ones in ship earned only 60. The price of a moderate condition, can very quickly chicken at the time was 30 dinars. take a turn for the worse if they’re not “They made a lot of money. They were cared for. free men and not slaves and their status The full version of this article was first in society was quite high,” Neguer says. published by Israel21C. The mosaic at the fifth century Beit Alpha synagogue in northern Israel. Photo by “But you have to take into account Boaz Eshkol. that making mosaics was very hard work. It included creating the materials, building the necessary infrastructure, cutting the stones, WE WANT TO BUY making a scale project and then the mosaic on site. By the end of the day SILVER JEWELLERY your back would hurt.” CHINA GLASSWARE Another 200 years? ART SCULPTURE HOUSEHOLD GOODS, etc Fast forward 2000 years, and the workload is now focused on preserving the endeavours of those Burr & Muir ancient artisans. Antiques/Collectables Neguer notes that the mosaics that The Mirage, Shop 5, have been uncovered in Israel will Cnr Strand & Hudson Streets, De Waterkant, Cape Town probably last another 200 or so 021 4181269 Fax: 021 418 1273 years, until being ruined by wear and email: [email protected] Dionysus House, an ancient villa found in Tzipori from the third century Roman tear. Somewhat surprisingly, that’s website www.burrmuir.com period, contains the Mona Lisa of the Galilee — a woman peeping up from not the end of the world as far as the floor alongside images of Greek wine god Dionysus. Photo by Tomisti via he’s concerned. Wikimedia Commons. back to contents 22 Cape Jewish Chronicle February 2021 Continues from page 1 The annual Eliot Osrin Award winners announced at Jewish Care Cape AGM

BARBARA BERNSTEIN, appointed Senior SELWYN SOLOMON Social Worker of Highlands House in November received the Community 1994, received the Professional Service Award. Leadership Award in recognition of his “At all times, Barbara remains gentle and sensitive active involvement with to the needs of the residents, whilst promoting Glendale Home for the their emotional wellbeing. In addition, Barbara is past 30 years. highly skilled at supervision, providing insightful guidance to two other social workers, who benefit “Selwyn has carried out greatly from her knowledge and experience and his various leadership from her insight into the needs and problems roles with a deep of the residents. Barbara has certainly earned commitment to uplifting this accolade.” the lives of our residents Barbara Bernstein and making sure that ZIA ADLER, social Glendale is a homely, worker at Jewish caring and harmonious Community Services environment for for the past 16 everyone. Selwyn has years, received the always been generous Professional Service with his institutional Chairperson Judith Cohen, Director Shelly Korn, Award. Selwyn Solomon, Resident Charles Brand and Vice knowledge and his Chairperson Lesley Katz leadership contribution “Zia’s passion for her to Glendale is deeply profession and Services appreciated. Selwyn has recently retired from the Glendale Governing Board. to the Community, has He continues his communal leadership role through Jewish Care Cape, the been exemplary. Her Jewish Welfare Trust and the UJC Allocations Committee.” extensive experience and skill is utilised to Zia Adler LOREN RAIZE, Director of CSO Cape Town, and the Community Security support and guide our Organisation (CSO) received the Chairperson’s Choice Award in recognition clients residing in the JCS Cottages, who require extensive care and support. of their mission to protect Jewish life and the Jewish way of life and to empower This award and the deep respect with which it is conferred acknowledges the community to protect itself. Zia’s extraordinary capacity to fulfil the needs of others with grace, dignity and determination, making her a true asset to JCS and the Community.” “Loren is passionate and dedicated to the safety and care of our community. She has had excellent training, and her knowledge is constantly passed on MARC EDELBERG, who joined the to her team, who are all volunteers, dedicated to the well-being of the Cape Astra Centre Committee in 2010 Town Jewish Community. Together, the medical team developed an excellent and was appointed Hon Treasurer, COVID-19 response during the past critical months, thus ensuring service received the Community Service excellence and the highest standard at all times when answering the call of Award. those in need.” See pic on page 1

“During the past seven months of STUART DIAMOND, pandemic Marc has met with finance Executive Director, Cape and admin ‘team’, consistently, South African Jewish Board at least every two weeks. He has of Deputies, received the enormous insight and understanding Chairperson’s Choice of the organisation. His role has been Award for the incredible invaluable in managing the most contribution he has made challenging time in the organisation. to holding our community He is a solid and reliable committee together, particularly during person and is totally committed this critical time. to giving the best service. He is “His call to action to bring Jonathan Sher, Astra Centre Vice always available and helpful in a Chairperson and Marc Edelberg friendly manner.” the various communal organisations together, RODNEY STEIN, who has served on the Oranjia committee to meet the impact of the for the past 14 years, received the Community Leadership COVID-19 pandemic, Award. was acutely timeous and highly effective. The seven Stuart Diamond and Philip Todres “He always avails himself unconditionally, and his wise welfare organisations council, insight and perspective are always well considered, under the Jewish Care Cape umbrella salute him for his dynamic leadership grounded and appreciated. His commitment, dedication at this time. Despite the pressure, he has always been available to offer and loyalty to the children, staff and organization have professional, informed and strategic advice. The Chairperson’s Award is an been unwavering. His gentle but firm approach and his Rodney Stein acknowledgement, by all seven welfare organisations, of Stuart Diamond’s ability to listen, has made him invaluable. Rodney remains contribution to the care, safety and well-being of our community, now and into hugely involved, and we turn to him regularly for guidance and leadership in the future.” all matters.”

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back to contents Cape Jewish Chronicle February 2021 23 BREAKING NEWS HEBREW MONUMENTS MANAGING DIRECTOR: CANTOR IAN CAMISSAR TOMBSTONES……REPAIRS……GARDENING

WE ARE DELIGHTED TO INFORM THE COMMUNITY THAT WE ARE OPENING A BRANCH IN ISRAEL CANTOR IAN CAMISSAR WILL BE OVERSEEING BOTH OUR OFFICES, TRAVELLING BETWEEN ISRAEL AND CAPE TOWN. WE WILL CONTINUE TO MANUFACTURE TOP QUALITY TOMBSTONES FOR THE CAPE TOWN COMMUNITY. WE HAVE APPOINTED MICHAEL PIETERSE AS SALES DIRECTOR AND GENERAL MANAGER. MICHAEL HAS BEEN WITH HEBREW MONUMENTS SINCE ITS INCEPTION. YOU CAN REACH MICHAEL ON: 0716061208 CANTOR IAN CAMISSAR: WHATSAPP OR TELEPHONE: 0825513344 EMAIL: [email protected] WISHING THE CAPE TOWN COMMUNITY A SAFE AND HEALTHY 2021

back to contents 24 Cape Jewish Chronicle February 2021 Witnessing Holocaust history global project

By Jaime Uranovsky In January, three Song’: ‘We are here!’ We are not organisations from across going away. We have survived and the globe came together to we will survive.” create an innovative way for Yet another chain link came when Eli Jewish schools around the was put in touch with the Executive world to memorialise the Director of HAMEC in Philadelphia Holocaust. and the two began speaking about the potential of the project. Eli he WE ARE HERE! Foundation, then contacted World ORT which TWorld ORT and the Holocaust advertised the programme to its Awareness Museum and Education schools all around the world and Centre of Philadelphia (HAMEC) the rest is history. teamed up to honour International Holocaust Remembrance Day on The team hopes that the 27 January. 19 ORT schools in programme will be encapsulated as many cities participated in the into Yom HaShoah ceremonies programme from various countries: in a couple of months’ time. Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Additionally, Eli’s goal is for schools in Australia, New Zealand, and for Mexico, Moldova, the Netherlands, Eli Rabinowitz with students at Herzlia High School in 2018. The Herzlia Vocal Ensemble Russia, South Africa, Spain, and with Cantor Ivor Joffe was filmed singing the Partisan's Song, and Miriam Lichterman was additional schools in South Africa Ukraine. in attendance. to get involved. He says, “I don’t want the enthusiasm to drop. I Life, which has over 700 entries. a teacher from Seattle, who came The programme involved the want it to grow so it’s very important He describes the way in which the across Eli’s work and worked with him testimonies of Holocaust survivors, to keep this going. It has to do with project came together as a chain. It to educate schools in the US about which had been shared with the being positive and having hope for all started when the Head of Jewish the ‘Partisans’ Song’ and its broader participating ORT school students a better world. A lot of Holocaust Studies at King David Linksfield read meaning. Eli then established the ahead of time via HAMEC. The stuff is understandably very sad and one of Eli’s blog posts in 2017. Eli WE ARE HERE! Foundation which students had then prepared and morbid but it doesn’t always have to was subsequently asked to talk to the teaches learners in Perth and beyond submitted impact statements be like that. It can also inspire you, as learners about the ‘Partisans’ Song’ the importance of being upstanders in response to the survivors’ Elie Wiesel writes about”. experiences with the aim of (a topic he had written about) while on instead of bystanders, who will personalising the Holocaust for a his annual trip to South Africa to visit respond to injustices in society. He For more information about the younger generation which may be family. While the ‘Partisans’ Song’ says, “It Stands for ‘mir zaynen do!’ – project or Eli’s blog, go to https://wah. more disconnected from it than its was usually sung by the students the last three words of the ‘Partisan’ foundation or https://elirab.me/ members’ parents and grandparents on Yom HaShoah in Yiddish, they were. To end off the commemoration, did not understand the meaning of students sang the ‘Partisans’ Song’ the words. in Yiddish, Hebrew, English, Russian, To Eli, it is imperative that the hope Spanish or in a combination of these in the ‘Partisans’ Song’ is conveyed languages, and the pre-recorded and understood by the youth. He programme was then broadcast explains, “This became something I via Zoom. was worried kids would lose. Nobody Eli Rabinowitz, CEO of WE ARE speaks Yiddish. It’s a world gone by HERE! Foundation, is the glue that but it’s a relevant world to me and to brought these organisations together educators to talk about”. The song, and played an instrumental role in written in 1943 by 23-year-old Hirsch the realisation of the project. Glick who was later murdered by the Nazis, is “all about making a better Eli, who was born in Cape Town and world — that’s what drives me”, who has lived in Perth since 1986, is says Eli. passionate about Jewish history and writes about a variety of subjects on The next link in the chain emerged his blog, Tangential Travel and Jewish in the form of Nance Morris Adler,

THE CAPE JEWISH CHRONICLE RECORDS ITS APPRECIATION OF THE CONTINUED SUPPORT GIVEN BY THE FOLLOWING SPONSORS The Susman Rubi and Anne With compliments With compliments from Aggie Hirsch Charitable Chaitman in memory of from Ben Rabinowitz Foundation Foundation Freddy in memory of Shirley

THE HAROLD AND Goldschmidt THE SILVERMAN Stanley and Zea Lewis BEATRICE KRAMER Family FAMILY FOUNDATION Foundation FOUNDATION Foundation

MEYER HIRSCH With compliments With Compliments With compliments GOLDSCHMIDT Kalman, Esther and The Jack & Ethel FOUNDATION The Henry Van Embden Family Foundation Michael Maisel Trust Goldin Foundation

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