​Next week, the Jewish community celebrates Shavuot, a special biblical festival that celebrates the anniversary of when G-d gave the Torah to the Jewish people more than 3 000 years ago.

The festival of receiving the Torah highlights that in order to receive G-d's blessings, people need to be regarded as a single unit, like one person with one heart.

The lesson learned from this festival is that in order for people to receive the revelation of G-d, his blessings and at this current critical time, the rain from the heavens, we need to be united as one. When we are tolerant and accept each other for our differences and act as one nation and one community, the blessings of G-d are bestowed upon us. 

The meaning of this festival on the Jewish calendar represents the values of building an inclusive city where we celebrate our various cultures and religions and unite as one city where everyone feels a sense of belonging.

If we can create peaceful and united communities built on the values of acceptance and tolerance, we will strengthen our efforts to build a caring and inclusive city.

On behalf of the City of Cape Town, I wish the Jewish community happy Shavuot.

 
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