Spain

On May 6th, the Jewish Community of Barcelona (CIB.CAT) solemnly observed the Central Act commemorating Holocaust and Heroism Day 2024, an event of profound significance that will be etched into the annals of our community’s history.

On this day dedicated to the remembrance of the victims and heroes of the Holocaust, we pay tribute to those who lost their lives, to the courageous who resisted, and to those who, amidst the deepest darkness and cruelty, demonstrated unwavering courage by providing aid.

It is noteworthy that this historic event saw the participation of 220 individuals, who came together to reflect and honor the memory of those who suffered and fought during one of humanity’s darkest periods.

The event featured a cast comprised of young members of the community, from the youth movement YAJAD of the CIB, students from Colegio Hatikva, the organization BBYO, and the youth movement TZOFIM, all under the leadership of coordinators and directors from the CIB and Colegio Hatikva.

The Federation of Jewish Communities of Spain, the institution that officially represents Spanish Jews, elected David Obadía as its new president for the next four years, replacing Isaac Benzaquén.
Obadía’s first declarations after being elected focused on pointing out that the axes of his work will be “dialogue, coexistence, diversity and multiculturalism”.

The new president of the Jewish community in Spain is Spanish, son and grandson of Spaniards, and was born in Beer Sheva, Israel, in 1961. During his childhood and adolescence he lived in Melilla and, currently, in Torremolinos, where he has developed his life as a businessman in the real estate sector and also his political career.

In 2015 he entered politics through José Ortiz, former mayor of Torremolinos, who appointed him as his personal advisor. With the Ciudadanos party he held the positions in the Torremolinos Town Hall of Deputy Mayor, Councillor for Development, Urban Planning, Infrastructure, Commercial Activities, Public Roads and Heritage, and served as spokesman for his political group. However, in 2023 Ciudadanos nominated him as candidate for mayor of Torremolinos but he decided to retire from politics.

According to the FCJE, Obadía has extensive community experience that began in 1980 as a collaborator in the Yosef Obadía synagogue in Melilla, founded by his great-grandfather of the same name.

To date he has held various posts, including that of president of the Jewish community of Torremolinos for 8 years, of which he is currently honorary president; vice-president of the FCJE; head of the Spanish Jewish Youth; and current president of the Jewish community of Malaga and of the Association of Jewish communities of Andalusia. He has also received numerous awards for his extensive career in the service of Spanish Jewish life over the last 40 years.

Our colleague Juan Caldes played a key role in organising a briefing at Centro Sefarad Israel in Madrid, featuring the renowned Uzi Rabi. Uzi Rabi shared crucial insights on the ongoing situation in Gaza and the regional threat posed by Iran, addressing multiple journalists from various Spanish media outlets. Kudos to Juan for facilitating such an informative session!

Our colleague Juan Caldes had the incredible opportunity to explore the vibrant Jewish Community of Melilla, sharing insights on combating anti-Semitism.

He also had the privilege to join the President of the Jewish community in a fruitful meeting with Vice President Miguel Marin and the Government of Melilla. Grateful for the chance to discuss important issues together!

We’re excited to share that Juan Caldes had the opportunity to address NNGG from the Partido Popular and share insights on the current situation in Israel. Gratitude abounds for their warm invitation and the chance to engage with their youth movement. Heartfelt thanks for the support during these challenging times.

This collaboration exemplifies the vital role of pro-Jewish advocacy in fostering dialogue and understanding. Through advocacy efforts, bridges are built, enabling us to share perspectives and create connections across diverse communities.

Looking forward to continued partnerships that strengthen bonds and promote mutual understanding.