150 march in Belfast to remember Shoah

 A March of Life to remember the Holocaust and take a stand against modern-day antisemitism took place in Belfast last weekend ahead of Yom HaShoah.

Some 150 members of the Jewish and Christian communities united for a parade in the city centre. Flags of many nations were carried, representing the international aspect of the Holocaust.

Co-ordinator Mike McNally said: “The concept behind this event is to stand shoulder to shoulder with our Jewish community to commemorate the Shoah, remembering those who perished and to pay tribute to the survivors, retelling their stories for generations to come.”

Steven Jaffe of the Northern Ireland Friends of Israel said: “The event is especially welcome at a time when Jewish people face increasing hate at home and abroad.”

Minister of the Belfast Jewish community, Rev David Kale, led prayers and community member Mel Goldberger spoke of the experiences  of his father and uncle who escaped from Vienna in 1939.

Children sang Hatikvah at the gates of Belfast City Hall.