A message from CEO Stacey Leavitt-Wright, Jewish Federation of Edmonton

(Edmonton) – This poignant season in the Jewish calendar reminds us of the strength, resilience, and beauty of our shared heritage. In the span of just a few days, we commemorate Yom Hashoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day), Yom Hazikaron (Israel’s memorial day) and Yom Haatzmaut (Israel’s independence day). These occasions are more than symbolic—they are the beating heart of our collective memory and identity.

Yom Hashoah urges us to never forget.

We honour the six million Jews lost in the Holocaust and recommit ourselves to the fight against antisemitism and hate. Yom Hazikaron brings our thoughts to the brave women and men who have given their lives in defense of the State of Israel, and to those killed in terror attacks. And then, in a powerful emotional turn, Yom Ha’atzmaut invites all to mark Israel’s 77th birthday this year—with joy, pride and unity.

These meaningful and memorable days remind us of the vital role of community and our deep bonds with Israel. I encourage you to attend all our upcoming events, made possible through the efforts of volunteers along with our staff team. Your presence strengthens our unified voice, honours those we remember and celebrate, and is a thank you to our organizers.

Let us take inspiration from Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks z”l, “We carry the past with us for as long as the Jewish people exist…We live for what they died for, by walking tall as Jews, showing we are not afraid, refusing to be intimidated by the antisemitism that has returned, or the sustained assault on Israel.”

This season also marks the return of our annual Edmonton Jewish Film festival, a powerful celebration of stories, identity and creativity. This vibrant cultural experience invites you to laugh, cry, and connect with the rich diversity of global Jewish life.

Bring your friends and family. We will use the proceeds to create a gesher chai—a living bridge—in the Partnership2Gether program, connecting our community, youth, and residents of the Galilee panhandle.

And looking ahead, I’m thrilled to share the latest updates on the new Jewish Community Centre. We have established a base construction concept that is

now moving to the phase of detailed architectural drawings. We are excited to reveal these with you at a “show and tell” on June 20. This project is about more than just a building; it’s about creating a better future for Jewish people in our community. It will be a space to gather, learn, play, and grow for generations to come.

Let us honour our past, celebrate our present, and invest in our future—together.

Stacey Leavitt-Wright is CEO of the Jewish Federation of Edmonton.