The symposium on Nov 10, 2002 turned out to be a reunion for those living in Israel. Friends who haven't met for 20 and 30 years met again. You could see hugs and kisses everywhere.

It was decided to plan periodical mini-Reunions in Israel (any suggestions as to where?) We'll try to announce the events on our website and send emails to those on our mailing list who live in Israel. If you are interested in being informed of any such reunions, please leave your details by clicking on "join our mailing list".

The study day was very intersting and informative. After the usual greetings and introductions, Salman Khlastchi gave an interesting summary on the life of jews in Iraq during the years 1952 - 1972. Then a film was shown on the revolution of Abdul Karim Qassin in 1958 and later his assassination during the revolution of 1963. Prof. Amatzia Baram talked about post-Saddam Iraq.

After the recess, there was a panel that included Linda Menuhin (nee Abdul Aziz), Murad al-Imari, Maurice Shohet, Salman Khlastchi, Ben-Tzion Salman, David Petel and Eliezer Tzafrir. Personal moving stories were told about their life and escape from iraq. The study ended with a lecture by Dr. Nissim Kazzaz, author of the book 'The End of a Diaspora' about the life of jews in Iraq during the years 1951-2000 See our book section for details.

Many thanks to the Babylonian jewry heritage center for organizing the event and to Maurice Shohet for sponsoring it.

November, 2002