"We Deserve This Maccabiah More Than Ever"

Israel’s 78th Independence Day was marked this year in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with a vibrant community event inspired by the spirit of the Maccabiah- bringing together sport, unity, and Jewish pride.

Organized by the Jewish Federation of Milwaukee and the local JCC, in collaboration with MWU’s central shlicha in North America, Lior Witlin, the event brought the entire community together under the theme “Team Jewish!”.

The program featured ceremonies, a community march, family activities, and Maccabiah-style sports games - creating a dynamic and engaging experience for all ages.

A highlight of the day was, undoubtedly, the Maccabiah torch-lighting ceremony, as the traditional torch arrived from Israel as part of its journey through Jewish communities across the United States.

 Community leaders, the Jewish Agency gap-year volunteers (Shinshinim), a delegation from Kibbutz Yad Mordechai, and local representatives took part in the ceremony, joined by Israel’s Consul General to the Midwest, Elad Strohmayer, and his husband, Oren Ben Josef, currently Director of Culture and Sports at the Consulate and formerly Director of the Maccabiah’s Partners Department.

In his remarks, Strohmayer captured the spirit of the moment: "After October 7, and after everything the Jewish people in Israel and worldwide have been through, we deserve this celebration. The upcoming Maccabiah, taking place this summer in Israel, will be the best ever, because we will come together, Israelis and Jews from all over the world, to celebrate our Jewish identity, strength, resilience, and our love for Israel. We are all 'Team Israel' - a strong community standing together".

Following the ceremony, hundreds of participants marched together in the “March for Israel”, expressing unity and solidarity. The celebration continued with a lively community carnival and sports activities, reflecting the values of excellence, resilience, and connection.

The event concluded with a festive closing ceremony and a powerful Koolulam video, symbolizing unity and the strength of community.

Milwaukee’s Jewish community once again demonstrated its deep connection to Israel and the enduring bond between Jews around the world - bringing the values of the Maccabiah to life. We look forward to welcoming you all to Israel this summer!