UPDATE: Rabbi Doron Perez, executive chair of the Mizrachi World Movement, has issued an urgent call for Australian Jews to participate in the World Zionist Congress (WZC) elections, the first opportunity for Australians to vote in decades. Speaking passionately during a five-day tour across Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth, Perez emphasized the significance of this election, which concludes on Sunday.
In his heartfelt addresses, Rabbi Perez shared the profound grief of losing his son, Daniel, while serving in the IDF on October 7. He described this date as the worst in Jewish history since the Shoah, marking a pivotal moment that highlights the urgency of Zionism in today’s climate.
“This election is the most important that many of you may never have heard of,” Perez declared at Kehillat Masada, where he cited the Orthodox Israel Coalition Mizrachi as one of five choices for voters. He urged all who identify as Zionists to “join in,” stressing, “I’d rather have you inside the tent than outside.”
Rabbi Perez also lamented the rise of antisemitism morphing into anti-Zionism since October 7, which he termed “the greatest challenge we have today.” He explained, “All they’ve done is swap the word Jews for Zionists,” calling for a unified response through active participation in the WZC elections.
Reflecting on the heroism displayed on that tragic day, Perez recounted the bravery of thousands of Israelis who risked their lives to save others. He poignantly shared the experiences of his sons, with Yonatan surviving injury and Daniel, aged 22, losing his life while defending Nahal Oz.
“Nobody should ever be okay if they have lost a child, but we need not be defined only by our pain and our challenges,” Perez said, urging the community to focus on resilience and action.
Rabbi Daniel Rabin of Caulfield Shule expressed his gratitude to Perez, stating, “Thank you for showing us what real leadership and courage look like.”
As the deadline for voting approaches, Australian Jews are encouraged to make their voices heard in this critical election, which Perez believes can shape the future of Zionism and Judaism together.
This urgent message resonates deeply within the community, making it imperative for all eligible voters to engage in this historic moment. The WZC elections present not just a choice but an opportunity to affirm beliefs in the face of rising challenges.
