Thursday has been designated a national day of mourning to honor the victims of the Bondi Beach terror attack.
Australians are being asked to participate in a mitzvah and observe a minute of silence at 7:01pm AEDT to commemorate those killed in the attack.
What is a national day of mourning?
The government occasionally declares days of mourning to acknowledge significant tragedies or the passing of prominent figures. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on January 20th that a national day of mourning would be held on January 25th for the 15 victims of, and those impacted by, the Bondi terror attack last month.
How will the day be marked?
The Chabad Community in Bondi has chosen the theme: “Light will win, a gathering of unity and remembrance.”
The Australian Capital Territory and New South Wales will illuminate national institutions on Thursday night as “symbols of light,” and other institutions across the country are encouraged to do the same. A commemorative installation called the 15 Pillars of Light will also be held in Canberra and cities across Australia, serving as a visible symbol of mourning, remembrance and national solidarity.
Flags will be flown at half-mast on all Commonwealth and NSW government buildings throughout the day. The Chabad of Bondi will hold a memorial service at 7pm AEDT, available via live stream and on Sky News. The ABC will observe a minute of silence on its television and radio broadcasts at 7:01pm AEDT.
How do I observe the day of mourning?
Prime Minister Albanese is encouraging the public to observe a minute of silence at 7:01pm AEDT. A virtual condolence book is available on the NSW government website for those wishing to share a message.
Australians are also encouraged to share a meal and spend time with family and friends of all faiths and backgrounds, leave a candle on their doorstep or front windows, and undertake a mitzvah.
What is a mitzvah?
A mitzvah is an act of kindness and compassion in the Jewish tradition, often involving everyday actions to improve the world – a core Jewish value known as tikkun olam. Since the terror attack, Jewish leaders have encouraged Australians of all faiths to perform mitzvahs to create unity and “honour those who no longer can.”
These acts can include checking in on a neighbor, volunteering time, supporting local businesses, or donating to those in need. The prime minister’s office has suggested 15 mitzvot:
- Give to others — donate to organizations in service of others.
- Uplift the sick — visit someone who is unwell and offer support.
- Help those who have helped you — perform one small task to help your parent or older relative.
- Open your home — offer hospitality to someone you may not have thought to.
- Travel with care — help those needing transport, treat the roads and drivers with respect.
- Prioritise family — spend the first hour of your evening dedicated to your family, screen-free.
- Gratitude first — begin your day with thanks for the good things surrounding you.
- Act with intent — reflect with a moment of silence to seek guidance and clarity before beginning a task.
- Kindness to animals — ensure your pets are fed and cared for before you sit down to enjoy your own meal.
- Work with integrity — give the time you committed to the tasks you committed to.
- Warmth and positivity — greet people with a smile and take time to speak to others.
- Cherish your partner and friend — remind those you love every day how grateful you are for all they do for you.
- Prayer for healing — say a prayer for complete physical and spiritual recovery for the victims of the Bondi massacre.
- Teach children — read children stories that show them all the good in the world.
- Legacy of life — empower the next generation to carry forward not with loss but with hope.
Thursday will not be a public holiday. The federal government says businesses “may wish to acknowledge the day if appropriate,” but there is no requirement for any activities to be suspended.
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