On the evening of December 3, 2023, a vigil was held in London to honor the victims of the recent attack in Bondi, Australia. The gathering, organized by Stop the Hate UK, brought together members of the Jewish community and their allies to remember those affected and to promote a message of unity and resilience.
Rabbi Yisroel Lew of Chabad of Bloomsbury and Marylebone addressed the attendees, emphasizing the importance of positivity in the face of adversity. “Just a small amount of light, a small good deed, can drive away a long darkness, and that has always been the Jewish response,” Rabbi Lew stated. He expressed hope for increased community engagement during the Hanukkah celebrations, urging attendees to participate in events without fear.
The rabbi shared a personal connection to the tragedy, noting that Eli Schlanger, a British-born rabbi among the victims, was a childhood friend. “He really was a picture of kindness, of warmth, of service, of helping others,” Rabbi Lew recalled. To mark the first day of Hanukkah, he lit a menorah, leading the group in singing prayers as a tribute to the victims.
Fiyaz Mughal, the founder of Muslims Against Antisemitism, also spoke at the vigil, expressing solidarity with the Jewish community. “I wanted to come and speak in solidarity with you because the threats against you continue to rise,” Mughal stated. He acknowledged the need for voices from diverse communities to challenge the rising tide of hatred and extremism. “The sense of intimidation you have to live through is appalling,” he added.
The attendees showed their support for a local hero, Ahmed al Ahmed, who was filmed bravely tackling the gunman during the Bondi attack and seizing his weapon. Mughal highlighted Ahmed’s courage, stating, “There was a member of the Muslim community, Ahmed al Ahmed, who risked his life.”
This vigil not only served as a memorial for the victims but also as a powerful reminder of the collective strength that emerges during times of crisis. The shared messages of hope, solidarity, and the commitment to combat hatred resonated deeply with all present, reinforcing the importance of community and compassion in overcoming darkness.
