Aruba’s Prime Minister, Mike Eman, proudly embraced his Jewish heritage this week as he met with Rabbi Aharon Blasberg, Director of Chabad Aruba, to mark the month of Elul in preparation for the Jewish New Year.
During the visit, Rabbi Blasberg guided Prime Minister Eman in putting on Tefillin and reciting the Shema prayer. He also sounded the shofar, a traditional practice throughout Elul that inspires reflection and repentance.
Eman, whose mother is Jewish, has long expressed pride in his Jewish roots and maintained a close relationship with Chabad both locally and abroad. In the past, he has welcomed visiting rabbinical students to the island and even visited Chabad-Lubavitch headquarters in Brooklyn during an official trip to New York.
To further highlight his support for Jewish life on the island, Prime Minister Eman placed a new mezuzah on the door of his office. “It was a beautiful meeting,” said Rabbi Blasberg, noting the Prime Minister’s dedication to strengthening Aruba’s Jewish community.
Aruba’s Jewish history dates back centuries, and today, Chabad Aruba led by Rabbi Blasberg and his wife, Chaya—serves both residents and the many Jewish tourists who visit the island. With the Prime Minister’s continued support, Jewish tradition and culture remain an important part of Aruba’s diverse identity.
Photo credit : https://collive.com/prime-minister-of-aruba-prepares-for-rosh-hashana/
