Jerusalem Mayor Announces Launch of Jerusalem Unity Prize
Source: Gesher Foundation
Submissions are now being welcomed online for the Jerusalem Unity Prize in memory of Eyal Yifrach, Gilad Shaar and Naftali Fraenkel, z”l, whose tragic kidnapping and murder deeply moved Israeli society and Jews around the globe. The prize was conceived in partnership with the families of the three boys and Jerusalem-based organization Gesher as a way to perpetuate the spirit of unity which existed across Israel and around the world during the days following the boys’ kidnapping.
The award acknowledges the efforts of organizations and individuals in Israel and the Diaspora who actively work to advance unity throughout Jewish communities and Israeli society.
Award applicants must prove how their actions are instrumental in advancing mutual respect for others amongst the Jewish people. The initiatives presented by applicants should be critical both in times of crisis and in daily life, as well as relevant over extended periods of time and for large segments of the population within Jewish and Israeli society. Unity is a universal ideal that has no geographic boundaries and we are proud to welcome applicants from Israel and around the world.
The underlying goal and vision of the prize is to acknowledge the efforts and accomplishments of those who work to advance the critical importance of Jewish unity, and inspire tolerance and mutual respect across the Jewish world –promoting acceptance of those who think, act or live differently.
The award will be presented in three separate categories, each with prizes of up to 100,000 shekel. Winners will be chosen from a committee chaired by the Mayor, the parents of the three boys and dignitaries from Israel and the Diaspora.
- Individuals or Organizations – This award will be presented to individuals, entities or organizations who prove that they have worked in an exemplary manner to advance Jewish unity over an extended period of time.
- Social Initiatives – This award will be presented to individual visionaries or groups of visionaries who have advanced social programs that challenge the problem of dis-unity within the greater Jewish community.
- Israel and the Diaspora – This award will be presented to individuals or groups who have successfully advanced programs that better unite the Diaspora with the land and people of Israel.
In addition to the prize, a special Unity Day is being planned for June 3, 2015 – 16 Sivan, 5775 in Jerusalem where the awards will be presented alongside programming to promote unity initiatives. The event is being held on the one year anniversary of the boys’ deaths.
Get more information on the Jerusalem Unity Prize website.