On January 17, 2023, the ECUJE (Cultural and University Jewish Space of Europe) hosted an exceptional evening in support of the Ukrainian people. This event, organized in partnership with the Stand With Ukraine association and the George Gershwin Lodge of B’nai B’rith, brought together prominent figures to express the Jewish community’s solidarity with Ukraine, which has been devastated by war.
The evening was divided into two main segments. The first addressed the general political issues of the war in Ukraine, while the second focused on the specific situation of Jewish communities in Ukraine and Russia, both of which have been deeply affected by the conflict.
Among the guests, Vadym Omelchenko, Ukraine’s Ambassador to France, emphasized the importance of international support during this crucial time for his country. Oleksandra Matviïtchouk, 2022 Nobel Peace Prize laureate and president of the NGO Center for Civil Liberties (CLC), shared her commitment to defending human rights in Ukraine, shedding light on the challenges faced by Ukrainian civil society. Historian Iryna Dmytrychyn, an expert on Ukraine, and David Franck, president of the Council of French Nationals in Ukraine, also provided their analysis and testimony on the current situation.
Prominent figures from the French Jewish community also expressed their unwavering support for the Ukrainian people. Yonathan Arfi, president of the CRIF (Representative Council of Jewish Institutions in France), Elie Korchia, president of the Central Consistory, Philippe Meyer, president of B’nai B’rith France, and Yves Rouas, president of the ECUJE, spoke about the values of solidarity and brotherhood that unite the two peoples, especially in these times of crisis. Bernard-Henri Levy, an indefatigable defender of Ukraine, was present to discuss the special bond between the Jewish community and Ukraine.
Two musical performances by Maryna Voznyuk and Fred Zeitoun also enriched the evening.
Finally, the event was an opportunity to support the ‘Lights for Winter’ campaign, led by the Stand With Ukraine association, which aims to fund the purchase of generators for Ukrainians facing electricity shortages in the winter.
To contribute to the shipment of generators, you can make a donation here.
This evening was a moment of unity and mobilization, where voices came together to express a single message: solidarity and support for a courageous people, whose resilience in the face of adversity continues to inspire the international community.
