Home / War and Conflict / Sydney Vigil: Unity Rises After Bondi Beach Attack
Sydney Vigil: Unity Rises After Bondi Beach Attack
16 Dec
Summary
- Rabbi Jeffrey Kamins spoke of unity in Hyde Park vigil.
- Vigil commemorated 15 killed in antisemitic Bondi attack.
- Interfaith leaders and community members embraced.
- This event occurred one day after the terror attack.
In the wake of a shocking antisemitic terror attack on Sydney's Bondi beach, a powerful vigil was held in Hyde Park, embodying a message of profound unity. Rabbi Jeffrey Kamins addressed the attendees, speaking about the overwhelming support and messages of love received from various faith communities and friends across the country, underscoring a shared sense of humanity.
The vigil served to commemorate the 15 lives tragically lost and dozens injured in the recent attack. Bilal Rauf, a special adviser at the Australian National Imams Council, offered heartfelt condolences, noting how the pain resonated with his own community's experience after the 2019 Christchurch massacre. A poignant moment saw Rauf and Kamins share a spontaneous embrace, met with widespread applause from the crowd.
Similar vigils have taken place across Sydney and Melbourne, uniting individuals from diverse faiths and secular backgrounds. These gatherings, including one hosted by Sydney Friends of Standing Together, a group supporting peace and equality, emphasized coming together in the face of horror. Speakers shared prayers and messages of solidarity, reinforcing the idea that defeating darkness requires unity and mutual support.
