The families of the three young victims of terror, together with the Gesher organization and Mayor Nir Barkat, have established the Jerusalem Unity Prize.
The families of Eyal Yifrach, Gilad Shaar and Naftali Frankel, the three teens kidnapped and murdered by terrorists in summer 2014, together with Mayor of Jerusalem Nir Barkat and the Gesher organization, have established the Jerusalem Unity Prize. The goal? To bring unity to the mixed multitude of people in Israel!
From the website (unityprize.org):
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.
Throughout Jewish history, the ideals of equality and unity have been central to our national and personal identities. The Jerusalem Unity Prize in Memory of Eyal, Gilad and Naftali was born out of tragedy but is inspired by belief in a better future. This remarkable initiative reminds us that regardless of our challenges — there will always be far more that unites us than divides us.
This is the strength of Israel. These three mothers experienced the most horrible tragedy, but they turned it into an opportunity to unite the nation. We applaud their efforts and look forward to seeing how this program develops.