Large LI Contingent Marches In Israel Day Parade

LONG BEACH, NY — This year's Israel Day Parade, the first since the War with Hamas, brought thousands to the annual event on Fifth Avenue.

One of the marchers on Sunday was Yvette Oppenheim, president of Temple Emanu-El of Long Beach.

"I had never been to this parade, but I thought this would be the year to be there," Oppenheim said.

She was part of at least four busloads full of Long Islanders, who participated in the parade, organized by the Jewish Community Center (JCC).

Those who assembled along Fifth Avenue were showing solidarity with Israel and calling for the release of the hostages from Gaza.

"It was very enthusiastic and joyous," Oppenheim said. "Everybody was brothers and sisters. It was a wonderful feeling."

Large tanker trucks would keep any pro-Palestinian protesters away from the festivities. And the celebratory tone included waving Israeli flags and banners. Many signs of the hostages were also displayed.

Despite the large police presence, "I was looking up at the sky," she said. "I can't tell you I wasn't a little bit nervous being there."

Ultimately, Oppenheim felt this was important for her and so many Jews to "support in every way that we can and this was a way of doing it."