Archives of the Mayor's Press Office

Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani tonight hosted the annual reception in honor of the Salute to Israel Parade at Gracie Mansion. The parade, a City tradition since 1964, celebrates Jewish American traditions and the founding of the State of Israel. Mayor Giuliani will serve this year as the parade's honorary grand marshal.

Joining the Mayor were Deputy Mayor Anthony Coles; Ambassador Alon Pinkas, Consul General of Israel in New York; Israel's Public Security Minister Uzi Landau; Yehuda Lancry, Ambassador to the United Nations; Judy Kaufthal, President of the Israel Tribute Committee; and other distinguished members of the Jewish community.

"For over five decades, Israel has survived warfare, terrorism and internal strife, and has become an island of democracy in the Middle East," said Mayor Giuliani. "As the home of the largest Jewish population outside Israel in the world, New York City has always been a friend of Israel. With this parade, we once again recognize Israel's great achievements, and we celebrate the values that we hold in common."

The Salute to Israel Parade, a project of the Israel Tribute Committee, is the largest single gathering in support of Israel in the world. Approximately 60,000 marchers, 20 high school marching bands, and 25 floats will celebrate this year's theme, "The Spirit of a People." Organizers are expecting over one million spectators to line the route.

The Parade will be held rain or shine on Sunday, May 20, at 11am. For more information on the parade call the Israel Tribute Committee at 212-245-8200 extension 106.

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