A World Connected by Shared Grief: Calgary Stands with Sydney

It's funny how quickly news travels, isn't it? One moment, you're going about your day, perhaps thousands of miles away, and the next, your heart drops as you learn of an unthinkable tragedy. That's exactly what happened when the news broke about the horrific stabbing spree at Sydney's bustling Bondi Junction shopping centre. It was a senseless act that claimed six innocent lives and left many more injured, sending shockwaves far beyond Australia's shores.

Here in Calgary, the echoes of that sorrow were felt profoundly, particularly within the Jewish community. You see, when such violence unfolds, especially in a place where people simply went to shop and live their lives, it strikes a raw nerve. For many, this wasn't just another news story from afar; it was deeply personal. Rabbi Mark Geller of the Beth Tzedec Congregation articulated this feeling so well, noting how these incidents, whether they're in Israel or halfway across the globe, unfortunately contribute to a pervasive sense of insecurity and vulnerability. It's a heavy burden to carry, this constant awareness.

And so, in a beautiful, albeit somber, display of unity, the community gathered. There was a poignant vigil held in Calgary, a chance for people to come together, to grieve collectively, and to show unwavering support for those affected in Sydney. Deborah Drache, representing the Calgary Jewish Federation, emphasized just how vital it is for communities to stand shoulder to shoulder during these dark times. She spoke of the importance of solidarity, of demonstrating that we are, indeed, all connected, and that an attack on one community is, in a very real sense, an attack on us all.

While Australian authorities have, I believe, indicated that the perpetrator, Joel Cauchi, was not driven by religious or antisemitic motives, and that the attack appeared to target women specifically, for the Jewish community globally, the past few months have been incredibly tough. There's been a noticeable rise in antisemitism and hate crimes, which naturally heightens anxieties. So, even if this particular incident wasn't explicitly antisemitic, the backdrop of current events still made it feel incredibly close to home. Dr. Michael King, president of Beth Tzedec, underscored the universal need for safety and belonging, highlighting that our synagogues, our community centres, our homes – they should always be sanctuaries, places where we feel secure.

These moments, as painful as they are, also serve as a powerful reminder of our shared humanity, don't they? They show us how deeply interconnected we truly are, even across oceans. The Calgary Jewish community's heartfelt response to the Sydney tragedy isn't just about offering condolences; it's a testament to the enduring strength of community, the resilience of the human spirit, and the unwavering belief that even in the face of senseless violence, we must continue to stand together, offer comfort, and strive for a world where everyone can feel safe and belong.