Honoring Memory and Sacrifice: JCC Hosts Yom HaShoah and Yom HaZikaron Commemorations

the JCC Jewish Community Center was honored to support and host two combined commemorative events led by Ms. Maya Yaron, Representative of the Israel Economic and Cultural Office in Taipei: Holocaust Remembrance Day (Yom HaShoah) and Israel Memorial Day (Yom HaZikaron) — honoring both the victims of the Holocaust and all fallen soldiers of past and present Jewish wars.

On April 29th the solemn ceremony was led by Representative Ms. Maya Yaron. During the solemn ceremony, we had the privilege of hearing from Ms. Orly Sela, a third-generation descendant of a Holocaust survivor. Ms. Sela delivered a powerful first-person narrative recounting her grandmother’s harrowing journey — from being deported with her parents to Auschwitz, to eventually rebuilding her life and immigrating to Israel. Her heartfelt testimony offered a personal and emotional window into history. . The ceremony concluded with Jewish high school students lighting candles , symbolizing remembrance and hope passed on to the next generation.

On April 30th , Representative Ms. Maya Yaron and her team welcomed members of the media to a special tea gathering, continuing the message of remembrance and reflection. Ms. Orly Sela once again shared her grandmother’s powerful story, helping the media connect with these historical events on a deeply human level.

Guests also enjoyed a 40-minute guided tour of the JCC, led by our PR team — a rich and engaging introduction to Jewish culture and values. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing a desire to return with friends for deeper learning.

We are truly honored to provide the venue and refreshments for these meaningful events. Together with the Israel office, we stand committed to preserving memory, honoring sacrifice, and encouraging understanding.