Walt Secord sends his Pesach message
As NSW Shadow Minister for Police and Counter Terrorism and as deputy chair of the NSW Parliamentary Friends of Israel, it is once again my pleasure to wish friends and family in the NSW Jewish community – a Chag Pesach Sameach.
Walt Secord
Beginning this Friday night, Jews around the world will come together for eight days to celebrate Pesach – the festival marking the liberation of the Jewish people from slavery in Egypt more than 3000 years ago.
On the Seder night, over a festive meal that includes four cups of wine and matzah (unleavened bread), we retell the story of the Exodus. We tell our children that in every generation there have been those who have tried to annihilate us – and each time God has kept his promise: to keep us, as a people, alive.
It is remarkable to think of the legion of horrors that have befallen the Jewish people. From the Babylonian and Roman sackings of Jerusalem and Ancient Greece’s religious persecution; to the blood libels and the Crusades; to the mass expulsions from countries like England, France, Portugal and Spain; to the pogroms and the Shoah – it is sobering and remarkable to consider the survival of the Jewish people over the millennia.
Passover is the time that we recall the miracle of Jewish survival and thank God for protecting us in the face of the forces arrayed against us.
2022 is no different from eras past. Antisemitism is on a steep rise everywhere, including in Australia where antisemitic slurs and vandalism are not uncommon.
However, on a positive note, in a bipartisan effort, we are hopeful to see the public display of the Nazi flag banned in NSW – later this year.
This year is unique as Seder night will take place as our Christian friends are celebrating Good Friday and as our Muslim friends are celebrating the holy month of Ramadan.
This moment of unity during the festival of Jewish liberation comes at a poignant time. I know that Christians, Muslims, Jews, and all residents of NSW are sparing a thought for the people of Ukraine as we hope and pray for peace there.
Again, it is my great pleasure to extend my warmest wishes to you and your family – for a happy and healthy Passover.
Walt Secord is the NSW Shadow Minister for Police and Counter Terrorism and NSW Parliamentary Friends of Israel Deputy Chair
