Dear friends and partners,

The feat of Freedom provides a splendid opportunity to remember from whence we came, what lies ahead, and before whom we must give an account.

We came from thousands of history, throughout which we conquered cultural peaks, and set ethical standards for all humanity. We came from dozens of generations, in which we differed from those around us, in the Land of Israel and across the world. And we came from moments of great horror, and from moments of sublime elation.

We believe that we are working to fulfill the Prophecy of Amos: “And I will bring back the captivity of my people Israel: and they shall build the abandoned cities, and inhabit them: and they shall plant vineyards, and drink the wine of them: and shall make gardens, and eat the fruits of them” (Amos, 9: 14). It is our immense fortune to have this privilege – fulfilling the prayers of hundreds of generations who dreamed of the rebirth of Jewish independence.

We will give an account to our parents and grandparents, whose vision carved out the path ahead of us. We will give an account to our children and grandchildren, alongside us at the forefront of events, without losing hopes for a time of freedom and peace.

On behalf of our veteran residents, newcomers, and the olim at Ibim Village, on behalf of the farmers, the workers in industry, commerce, and tourism, on behalf of the teachers in schools and colleges, the therapists who heal bodies and souls, and on behalf of the soldiers and civilians on the threatening border –

I thank you for the friendly support you grant us, your prayers for our safety, and the shared faith in the rightness of our path.

Warmest greetings for a happy and meaningful Passover – to you and your loved ones, our friends, and your whole community.

Alon Schuster

Mayor, Sha’ar HaNegev Regional Council