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

By Stacey Leavitt-Wright

(Edmonton) – This weekend, Jewish Federation of Edmonton will once again proudly host the Israel Pavilion at Edmonton Heritage Festival. For over 47 years, this event has provided an opportunity to share Israeli culture, food, music, dance, and stories with our fellow Edmontonians, and we are excited to welcome visitors once again on Sunday and Monday.

We know that some members of our community may be feeling uncertain as demonstrations related to current events are expected to take place during the festival weekend. I want to reassure you that we have been working closely with Heritage Festival organizers and the Edmonton Police Service to help ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all attendees. The safety and security of our volunteers, visitors, and community remains our highest priority.

At its heart, Heritage Festival is a celebration of culture, diversity, and community. That is what the Israel Pavilion has always represented. Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy delicious kosher food available for purchase, cultural exhibits, music, dance performances, and opportunities to learn about the many traditions, histories, and people that make up Israeli society.

This year, we are especially grateful to the many individuals who have dedicated countless hours to bringing the pavilion to life. We celebrate Aviv Dancers, who are marking their 20th year performing at Heritage Festival, and Shiru Ha Shir, whose traditional folk dance has been part of the Israel Pavilion experience for decades. We are also delighted to welcome two guest singers who will be joining us this year. My sincere thanks also go to the Linetsky family and Postertech for their sponsorship and volunteer support, and to the Edmonton Jewish Community Charitable Foundation for supporting meals for our volunteers throughout the weekend.

This week’s Torah portion reminds us that our traditions are meant to be shared and passed from generation to generation: ‘You shall teach them diligently to your children.’ Through music, dance, food, storytelling, and community gatherings, we continue that sacred responsibility and proudly share our heritage with others.

If you are able, I encourage you to stop by the pavilion with family and friends. Your presence matters. In a time when many people feel challenged or uncertain, showing up with pride, warmth, and confidence is one of the most powerful things we can do as a community.

Wishing you a peaceful Shabbat and looking forward to seeing many of you at Heritage Festival.

Shabbat Shalom.

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