This memorial day commemorates the tragedy of people who were forced to flee from their homes and leave the countries where they had lived for millennia, solely because of their Jewish identity. Most lost homes, property, and citizenship, and many suffered from violence and persecution.
When is it commemorated?
Commonly observed on November 30
The date was chosen because it comes right after November 29, 1947, when the UN voted to partition Palestine—events that triggered persecution and mass displacement of Jews across the Middle East and North Africa.
How is it observed?
Educational programs in schools.
Ceremonies, seminars, and lectures.
Media coverage highlighting refugee stories, culture, and history.
Why does it matter?
The story of the uprooting of entire Jewish communities from Arab countries and Iran is an important part of modern Jewish history that profoundly affected the Jewish nation as a whole, as well as the demographic composition of the Middle East and North Africa. This is a story that has to be told.
