Two days ago was a very important Israeli holiday called Yom Haatzmaut. This day commemorates the Israeli Declaration of Independence made in 1948. Independence Day is celebrated across the country in the same way we Americans celebrate the Fourth of July. However, in Israel, the night preceeding this special day, is equally important. This is a day called Yom Hazikaron, or Remembrance Day. Israel is largely known to be a military state, and all Jewish citizens are mandated to serve in the army for a period of time at the age of 18. Therefore, this special, heartfelt day is dedicated specifically to fallen soldiers or those who fell victim to terrorism in Israel; it is, therefore, both a day to mourn the loss of loved ones, as it is a day to celebrate their heroic and inspiring lives. Participating in these events allows the Israeli people to feel connected with everyone across the land, no matter their race, ethnicity or background, and it reminds everyone that we all are part of the same system and intertwined in an intimate and most meaningful way.
Next comes Israeli Independence Day, which is full of celebrations for Israel's independence. On this day in Haifa, I saw fireworks being set off across the region as well as live concerts and events. Famous musicians, writers and artists took to the stage to help Israelis across Israel feel a part of the greater whole. This day is celebrated across Israel and is one of the most important days in the Israeli year. This year was the 75th anniversary of the founding of the country, which is to say an especially significant milestone! The day after Independence Day is a day where essentially all Israelis go out and participates in one of the nation's favorite activities.
