Sheldon Adelson (1933-2021), was an American multi-billionaire, and one of the greatest philanthropists of the Jewish people in recent generations. Together with his wife Miriam, Sheldon contributed from his wealth to numerous Jewish causes in Israel and around the world—through physical sites, institutions, and political influence (such as funding the newspaper Israel Hayom). The Adelsons were (and Miriam still is) close to Donald Trump, and played a role in his decision to move the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem in 2018—the city they particularly loved and invested in significantly.
Now, four years after Adelson’s passing, the Jerusalem Naming Committee decided yesterday (Monday) to commemorate his name in the capital, in a decision promoted by Mayor Moshe Lion. The exact form of the commemoration has yet to be determined—whether it will take the shape of a street, a monument, a park, or another public building; in any event, however, this is an honor granted to very few, securing a place in the chronicles of the eternal city.
Commemoration for an Honorary Citizen
This is not the first time Adelson has been honored by Jerusalem: in 2013, he and his wife received the title of ‘Honorary Citizens’ of the city in recognition of their significant contributions to its strength and their commitment to its advancement and development. Their impact was evident in areas such as tourism, higher education, academic and medical research, and Holocaust education. Adelson worked extensively to secure substantial donations for various centers in the city, including the Hadassah Medical Center, the Hebrew University, the Museum of Tolerance, and the Taglit-Birthright Israel project, which he initiated and which has brought thousands of young people to the city.
Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion commented on the decision:
“Sheldon Adelson was an ambassador for Jerusalem in the world. His deep love was not only expressed in words but in great and courageous deeds. He saw Jerusalem not only as Israel’s capital but as the beating heart of the Jewish people. His commemoration is the least we can do to honor his tremendous legacy, one that lasted many years.”
