It’s possible that the weather on Sunday, May 19, 2019, could move Milwaukee’s annual Walk for Israel activities indoors.
Thunderstorms are currently predicted for Sunday.
The Walk for Israel is to mark Yom HaAtzmaut, the Israeli Independence Day. It begins with a torch-lighting ceremony at 3 p.m. This will take place regardless of rain; it can be held inside the planned start point for the Walk for Israel – the Milwaukee County War Memorial Center, 750 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive.
After 9:30 a.m. Sunday, information on whether the event will be indoors or outdoors will be posted online at two locations:
The entire Yom HaAtzmaut event is scheduled for 3–6:30 p.m. Food is $5 or $20 for a family. Note that free parking will be available at the War Memorial.
If the walk takes place, it will be a 1.5 mile solidarity walk at 3:30 p.m., according to Keren Weisshaus, who is a Federation-affiliated emissary to Milwaukee from Israel, known as the Milwaukee community shlichah. Weisshaus was key part of the event planning.
Hundreds of walkers are to make their way back to the war memorial at 4:30 p.m., for a celebration of Israel’s diverse culture through fashion, art, instruments and more.
Among the many activities which can be moved indoors will be a presentation by Israeli musician Tal Kravitz, who will be hosting a program related to musical instruments and Israel’s diversity. Also, there will be an exhibition of Jewish wardrobe items from different parts of the Diaspora, in keeping with the theme of Israeli diversity.
“This is Milwaukee’s biggest event of the year to show support for the people of Israel. Milwaukee and Israel have a long relationship,” said Miryam Rosenzweig, president and CEO of Milwaukee Jewish Federation. “We are the only community with 50 years of a community emissary and we look forward to continuing to build a vibrant future here in Milwaukee, in Israel and around the world.”