The Taglit-Birthright Israel initiative celebrated its 18th anniversary with a festive gala in Jerusalem Wednesday.
Some 6,000 participants from around the world, joined by 1,500 Israeli soldiers, gathered at the Sultan's Pool, one of the most popular open-air venues in the capital, for the biggest celebration in the organization's history.
Several prominent Israeli acts performed in the gala, including 2018 Eurovision song contest winner Netta Barzilai. The event also honored IDF units for their outstanding contribution to the promotion of Taglit-Birthright.
Since its foundation in 1999, some 650,000 young Jews from 67 countries have participated in Taglit-Birthright programs.
Dr. Miriam and Sheldon Adelson, the project's largest donors, also attended the event. The Adelsons have donated $410 million to Taglit-Birthright so far.
Other in attendance were co-founder Charles Bronfman and CEO Gidi Mark, as well as other donors, lawmakers and a delegation of the Birthright Israel Foundation.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sent a video message to participants.
"Taglit-Birthright is a life-changing event for many young men and women, who get to discover the miracle that is the State of Israel for the first time," he said.
"They are proud of our democracy and they become active participants in the biggest story ever told: the rebirth of the Jewish people. I thank all of the participants and supporters around the world, and look forward to another 18 years and more of tremendous success for Taglit. Congratulations."
Dr. Miriam Adelson spoke to the crowd.
"I'm an Israeli American and I love my country. When I see your faces, I remember two Jews who decades ago wanted to move from Poland to the free land of Israel. They came here alone, met, fell in love, overcame the loss of their families in the Holocaust, got married and became my parents. In their own little world, they made history. They raised Zionist Israeli children. I am proud to raise my children the same way, and they have all participated in Birthright," she said.
"Now it's your turn to make history. You are our chance to forge a living bridge with the Diaspora, with Jerusalem in your hearts. You face new challenges – you must defend Israel and be our ambassadors, with wisdom and love, and help change public opinion about Israel.
"Go out and make history for the future of the Jewish people, and continue the legacy of all who fight for the State of Israel," she said.
The Adelson family owns the company that is the primary shareholder in Israel Hayom.
