A festive and moving celebration of Yom Ha’atzmaut (Israel Independence Day) took place in New Jersey, initiated by the Michal Cababia, Executive Representative of the World Zionist Organization in North America, The event was held in partnership with the Jewish Center of Fair Lawn, the Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey, and Shevet Lehava (Israeli Scouts). The celebration highlighted the deep bond between the local Israeli community and the broader Jewish-American community, drawing approximately 550 participants—Israelis and Americans, secular and religious—representing the full spectrum of the community. The celebration featured a variety of festive activities for all ages and served as a platform for fostering a shared sense of identity and belonging. The Mayor of Fair Lawn, Christina Cutrone, honored the event with her presence, addressed the audience with warm words, and officially proclaimed May 1, 2025, as “Israel Independence Day – The Birthday of the State of Israel” in the City of Fair Lawn, on behalf of the City Council. During the event, the exhibition “Looking North and to its Rebirth” was showcased - an initiative of the Department for Irgoon and Israelis Abroad. The exhibit connected the audience to stories, roots, and experiences from the Israeli Jewish community. As part of the community spirit and mutual responsibility, a special Table was dedicated to writing messages and prayers for Idan Alexander, an IDF soldier kidnapped by Hamas and a native of Tenafly, New Jersey, located in the same Bergen County where the event was held. We are Happy to note that, as of the time of this writing, Idan has been released.
