We at March of the Living Australia, like most of you, have spent the last week watching in horror as the the situation in Ukraine continues to deteriorate.
How, in the 21st Century, a global power can betray the sovereignty of another nation and embark on as bloody and gruesome a campaign as this, threatening the stability of Europe and the world at large, is truly chilling. We've seen scenes of destruction and despair, and as the fighting continues an undercurrent of the events that preceded the Second World War and the Shoah fills us with unease.
We at March of the Living Australia wholeheartedly support the plight of Ukraine and loudly pronounce our solidarity with its people and our disdain for this horrible, uncalled for act of aggression by Russian President Vladimir Putin. We condemn President Putin's usage of the terms "Nazi" and "genocide" in describing the current leadership and actions of Ukraine, including its Jewish President, Volodymyr Zelensky, whose own grandfather fought the Nazis in WWII, and who lost many relatives in the Holocaust.
Our thoughts are, of course, with all Ukrainians, but especially with the Ukrainian Jewish population. The Jews of Ukraine have always walked a careful tightrope, and in these uncertain times find themselves subject to renewed risk and suffering. That is why we wish to promote the work of several vital organisations whose efforts are essential in securing the safety and wellbeing of the Ukrainian Jewish community - please, if you are able to, donate generously to these organisations so that we might help keep our fellow brothers and sisters safe:
1) The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC)
One of the oldest Jewish aid organisations dedicated to assisting Jewish communities under threat, the JDC is on the ground in Ukraine continuing to deliver urgent, lifesaving care to Jewish seniors and families who are counting on them.
Click here to donate to the JDC
2) Simon Wiesenthal Center - Ukraine Emergency Fund
The Simon Wiesenthal Center has launched a special urgent appeal in support of the people of Ukraine. All monies donated will be sent to vetted charities and humanitarian organisations.
Click here to donate to this special appeal