More than 2,000 members of the community walked in support of Israel independence on Sunday, May 22 at JEWISHcolorado‘s  WALK FOR ISRAEL, a two-mile walk that took place in downtown Denver as part of an extended Israel’s Independence Day celebration (Yom Ha’atzmaut).   The walk was followed by the Denver JCC’s Celebrate Family Festival and Hazon’s DIY Foodie Fair.

Osnat Fox, Israeli Emissary: “Israel is 68 years old.  That’s it. When my grandparents were born, there was no state for the Jewish people, and their generation forever paid the price with persecutions and the Holocaust.  Now we do have a state: a country that can make things grow in the desert, and despite its size, is well known for its technological advances and entrepreneurial spirit.  Israel is a holy land of different religions with a deep and profound history.  It is a vibrant democracy with a strong legal system.  It’s also a land with a vital art scene, contemporary culture and never ending night life.  Recently, Israelis ranked THIRD happiest people in the world.  Can you imagine, surrounded by enemies and we are among the happiest people in the world.”

Osnat Fox, Israeli Emissary: “2,000 people Celebrating Israel. WOW, 45 different organizations, from all parts of Colorado, different affiliations and many different views, all partnered for this event.”

Arielle Noam and Jacob Riehns: “We are here, doing what we do because Israel is important to us, because we care about our Jewish homeland and about our family across the ocean.”

Rabbi Joseph Black: “It’s wonderful to have a united community here today, to demonstrate our support of Israel and celebrate her 68th anniversary.”