European Council Commemorates Liberation Day in Strasbourg
Ceremony Marks Unique Day of Remembrance
In a significant gathering held in Strasbourg, representatives from 46 member states of the European Council commemorated “Liberation and Rescue Day,” a date that corresponds to the Hebrew calendar date of the surrender of Nazi Germany. This observance, marked on the 26th of Iyar, honors the liberation of the remaining Jewish survivors at the close of World War II. The ceremony, supported by delegations from Germany, France, and the United Kingdom, alongside the U.S. Consulate in France, concluded a series of international events dedicated to this occasion.
Attendance and Significance
The event featured prominent attendees, including Björn Borg, Deputy Secretary-General of the Council of Europe; Francesca Camilleri Vella, Malta’s Ambassador and President of the Committee of Ministers; Rabbi Abraham Weil of Strasbourg; representatives from the embassies of France, Britain, and Germany; and Yvonne Gonzalez, American Consul.
Rabbi Mendel Smama, leader of the local Jewish community, opened the ceremony by emphasizing the significance of observing the memorial date according to the Hebrew calendar, stating: “On this day, the world was liberated from fear and death. It is a day of thanks for salvation and a moral responsibility for a better world.” Following his remarks, military cantor Jonathan Bloom recited the prayer “Kel Maleh Rachamim,” and Rabbi Smama performed “Ose Shalom BiMeromav” accompanied by musicians.
Tribute to the Fallen
German, French, and British ambassadors lit three candles in memory of the victims. In his address, Deputy Secretary-General Borg remarked on the dual significance of the day: it symbolizes the liberation of Europe from Nazi ideology and acknowledges the resilience and contributions of the Jewish people to the continent. He noted that recognizing this day according to the Hebrew calendar adds a unique depth to its observance, reflecting shared identity and partnership.
Borg stressed the importance of combating rising anti-Semitism, asserting, “This is a moral obligation, just as it is to ensure religious freedom and safety for communities. Europe will continue to be a safe and free home for Jews.”
Messages for Future Generations
Rabbi Abraham Weil highlighted the theme of resilience and future-building in his message, stating, “The Jewish people commemorate significant events not just for what they have endured, but for what we choose to build from them.” He expressed hope for ongoing commitment to combating anti-Semitism and strengthening Jewish life in Europe.
Dr. German Zakhraiev, the initiator of “Liberation and Rescue Day,” emphasized humanity’s continuous challenges and the importance of remembering historical atrocities. He called for the global community to unite and honor the moment when they overcame divisions to liberate the world.
Historical Context and Global Observance
The Council of Europe, established after World War II to ensure human rights and inter-state stability, plays a crucial role in marking this remembrance. On the 26th of Iyar, memorial servstarts and prayers were held in approximately 25 countries worldwide, including France, Sweden, Tunisia, Argentina, Russia, and the United States, with the central event taking place, as every year, at the Western Wall in Jerusalem