By Adam Michael Segal

This is a month and year that is full of celebrations for Israel.

In addition to ongoing 60^th anniversary events, Tel Aviv marks 100 years as a remarkable city, Lag B’Omer festivities recently took place, and Canada and Israel celebrate a 60 year uninterrupted period of diplomatic relations.

But for me and my family, there is a more sentimental milestone to mark.

In May of 1948, my mother and her family set sail from Haifa for a new home in Canada.

Their two-plus week day journey at sea was choppy and challenging, but a sense of optimism permeated the voyage.

They came to Canada speaking a foreign language, with very little material means and few support systems to ease the transition.

But they planted seeds in their new country and over many years, it blossomed.

Although they physically left the Holy Land, they kept in contact with the small family who remained there and continued to be ardent Zionists.

I would venture to say this story shares many common features amongst the tens of thousands of Israelis now living in Canada.

The Israel my family left in 1958 wasn’t much older than my mother at the time and like a small child, was just beginning to take root.

In the 50-plus years since then, one can only marvel at how much it has prospered, including its relationship with Canada.

In addition to the trade links, Canada and Israel have partnered on everything from cultural pursuits and educational initiatives, to philanthropic endeavours and tourism.

Migration to and from both countries has played a pivotal role in cementing these ties.

So as my family celebrates its own unique connection to Canada and Israel, I would like to wish all Israelis and Canadians stronger ties and a stronger, mutually beneficial friendship for years to come.

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