Birthright Israel Foundation of Canada mourns the loss of Sheldon Adelson z”l who passed away on January 11, 2021. The following statement was released by Gidi Mark, International CEO, Taglit-Birthright Israel.
“We were deeply saddened to learn that Sheldon Adelson, passed away last night. Sheldon, together with his wife Dr. Miriam Adelson, was Taglit-Birthright Israel’s biggest and most enthusiastic supporter.
Together with Miri, Sheldon’s contributions to strengthening Jewish education, identity and pride have been unmatched in Jewish history, and no other project embodies his generosity and commitment more than his flagship project, Birthright Israel.
Birthright Israel was a source of pride for him and, time and again, Sheldon would recall his sheer joy at hearing young Birthright Israel participants saying what he would render ‘those five magic words’: this trip changed my life!
He loved to speak to Birthright Israel participants and alumni from all over the world, to hear their stories and to “infect” them with his unwavering love for the Jewish people and the State of Israel. A man of deep historical insight, he knew to appreciate our privilege to live in a time that has a free, sovereign Jewish state.
Sheldon z”l was a unique man. We have lost a dear friend. His passing is a great loss for the Jewish people and for the State of Israel. We will continue to work hard to fulfil his vision that all young Jewish adults from all countries will come to Israel on a Birthright Israel trip and will stay connected to their Jewish identity, community and to Israel. May his memory be a blessing.”
The following video was produced by Taglit-Birthright Israel to honour the incredible contributions of Sheldon z”l and Miri Adelson: