Israeli President Honors Efforts to Unite North and South at 'Unity Day' Ceremony

Highlighting the unwavering support for Israel during the ongoing war, President Isaac Herzog presented the 2024 Jerusalem Unity Prize awards to various organizations that have made significant contributions to Israeli society since October 7. This year’s theme, “Caring For One Another,” recognized those bolstering Israel's southern and northern regions, the home front, reservists, and the global Jewish community.

The Jerusalem Unity Prize, established by the Yifrach, Shaer, and Fraenkel families alongside former Jerusalem Mayor MK Nir Barkat, commemorates the unity felt across Israeli society and the Jewish Diaspora following the tragic kidnapping and murder of their sons Eyal, Gil-Ad, and Naftali in 2014.

At the ceremony held at the President's Residence, President Herzog praised the collective spirit of the Israeli people in response to the crisis. “Facing a murderous enemy, Israeli society responded with a clear and decisive call: 'Together we will win' – and only together,” Herzog stated. “The people of Israel do not regard this statement as merely a catchphrase but as a binding historical truism.”

This year's prizes were awarded in five categories: Strengthening the South, Strengthening the North, Strengthening the Home Front, Reservists, and the Diaspora. A special Award of Recognition was given to the Menomadin Foundation for its extensive efforts to enhance social resilience.

During the war, Menomadin's initiatives included supporting health and mental health startups providing life-saving solutions, aiding the rehabilitation of wounded soldiers, and integrating 12,000 evacuees, including 2,000 children, into the education system in Tiberias. Additionally, Menomadin enhanced local emergency infrastructure and developed a national welfare program in collaboration with the Ministry of Welfare.

The ceremony emphasized the vital contributions of various organizations and individuals. The award for "Strengthening the South" was presented to Aharai, an organization dedicated to youth leadership and civic participation in marginalized communities. For "Strengthening the North," the Kerem-El Druze Pre-Military Academy was honored for developing young leaders.

The Yedidim Organization received the award for "Strengthening the Home Front" for its non-medical first response services to citizens in distress. Heroes for Life (Lochamim LeLo Gvulot), engaging discharged soldiers in volunteering efforts abroad, was recognized in the "Reservists" category.

In the "Diaspora" category, Partnership2Gether Global Network was awarded for fostering connections between Jewish communities in Israel and worldwide. Additionally, singer Omer Adam received an Award of Recognition for his efforts to boost the morale of IDF soldiers and security forces.

Addressing the awardees, Herzog emphasized the importance of unity and mutual responsibility in times of crisis. “Our security forces deserve immense appreciation for their success, but no less for their determination and dedication. Israeli society is wholly committed to bringing our sons and daughters back home," he said.

Reflecting on the award, Haim Taib, founder of the Menomadin Foundation, said, "Receiving this recognition is a profound moment for us. The atrocities of October 7th deeply affected us all. However, I believed that through unity, we could overcome adversity."

The Unity Day Ceremony showcased the incredible efforts of these organizations and individuals, reinforcing the essential value of unity in overcoming challenges. Share this inspiring story and subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on Israel’s remarkable achievements.