The high point of the annual national celebration on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem that ushers in Independence Day is the torch-lighting ceremony, in which 12 Israeli citizens are honored for their contributions to society based on the theme selected for that year by being chosen to light one of 12 torches, one for each of the tribes of Israel. This year, for the first time, Culture and Sport Minister Miri Regev, who also chairs the Knesset Symbols and Ceremonies Committee, decided to dedicate one of the 12 torches to the "Jewish people," to be lighted by a Jew who does not live in Israel. The committee has launched an international campaign in conjunction with the Public Diplomacy and Diaspora Affairs Ministry to locate a worthy candidate. Diaspora Jews are invited to apply themselves or put others forth for the honor. This week, Regev filmed a clip to be used in the campaign in which she calls on viewers to recommend a Jewish man or woman who has contributed to the development, advancement and success of the city of Jerusalem. The theme of this year's torch-lighting ceremony marks "50 years since the liberation and reunification of Israel's capital city, Jerusalem." Regev has still not decided whether the "Jewish people's torch" will be an annual institution. Regev's decision is intended to highlight that Israel is the national state of the Jewish people, "the permanent, secure home of every Jew." "I am sure that this decision and our campaign in the Jewish communities [to find the person who will light the torch] will strengthen the commitment and bond to Israel and encourage many people to strengthen Israel and Jerusalem," Regev said.
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For the first time, Diaspora Jew to light Independence Day torch
In line with this year's theme, which marks 50 years since the reunification of Jerusalem, Culture and Diaspora Affairs ministries launch international search campaign for Jewish man or woman who has made outstanding contributions to Jerusalem.