Chabad Joins Los Angeles Rally Supporting the Israeli People

Los Angeles, CA — Despite scorching summer heat, thousands of passionate supporters of Israel took to the streets today for a unity rally coordinated by the Jewish Federation of Greater

Thousands attend a unity rally to show support for the Israeli people.

Los Angeles. Headlined by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, the event featured speeches from many of California’s political, religious, and community leaders.

Rabbi Boruch S. Cunin, Director of West Coast Chabad, addressed the rally, which was both a boisterous show of solidarity with the Israeli people and a plea for peace in this time of Middle East conflict. Even with the sweltering temperatures and prominent security measures, the pro-Israel event drew a large crowd — and had a significant Chabad presence as well.

Close to 100 Chabad representatives mingled with the participants, handing out free bottles of cold water as well as “Israel Needs Your Mitzvah” postcards. Chabad also had two booths at the site encouraging people to perform acts of goodness and kindness in support of the Holy Land. The free Shabbat candle “starter kits” offered by FridayLight were particularly well received by visitors.

Governor Schwarzenegger told the audience that, “Every nation, any nation, has the right to defend itself against terrorist attacks.” He concluded by making it clear that he believes “there’s nothing the Israeli people want more than to live in peace. And to all of Israel, Chai!”

Mayor Villaraigosa also stressed both support for Israel and a desire for a lasting peace, saying, “We are here today to be counted, and to demonstrate to the people of Israel that we can be counted on. But please note, we’re also here to affirm that there can be no peace without security.”

In his remarks, Rabbi Cunin reminded his listeners that, “The power, strength and prayers of the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, are with all of us right now. Never again will we ever, ever suffer, because we are fighting the fight of the right.”

“Go to the closest synagogue,” Rabbi Cunin urged, “And say, ‘I want to put on tefillin for Israel because an Israeli who gave his life cannot do it.’ Or travel to Israel, or light Shabbat candles to illuminate not only Israel, but also these wonderful United States… Through our deeds of goodness and kindness, we can bring about a truly lasting peace.”

Jewish Federation President John R. Fishel said, “We stand with Israel at a dangerous moment for all of us. As Americans, whatever our faith, ethnicity or ideology, we must stand together. Peace and security in Israel is not just a Jewish issue, it’s an American issue as well.”

Other prominent speakers included Congressman Howard Berman, Rabbi Marvin Hier of the Simon Wiesenthal Center, Los Angeles City Councilman Jack Weiss, and Israeli Consul General Ehud Danoch. Before the gathering dispersed, Los Angeles County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky made his position absolutely clear when he asked, “What’s at stake? For Israel, every conflict is sudden death. Tonight Israel is fighting for its life. That’s what this is all about, that’s what’s at stake.”