Ethiopian Jews will gather in Jerusalem today to commemorate this special holiday, which involves fasting, prayer and Biblical readings. The holiday also highlights the importance of strengthening the bonds between the Jewish people and homeland. Sigd is recognized as a national holiday in Israel.

This year’s Sigd will look different as we continue to fight COVID-19 and practice social distancing. Yet, in these hard times, we also see light – the Government of Israel has approved the aliyah of 2,000 Ethiopian Jews by Spring 2021. Keren Hayesod is supporting these efforts to reunite more families here in Israel.