The family of the Bondi shooting's youngest victim, Matilda, urged the community not to let her death fuel anger, as they said a final goodbye to the 10-year-old at her funeral on Thursday.
Matilda was among 15 people shot dead when two gunmen opened fire during a Hanukkah celebration at Sydney's Bondi Beach on Sunday.
Speaking to the BBC, her aunt Lina Chernykh stressed that while the Jewish community rightly seeks more action against antisemitism, Matilda was a child who spread happiness everywhere she went. She encouraged everyone to emulate Matilda's joy.
Take your anger and… just spread happiness and love and memory for my lovely niece, Ms Chernykh expressed. I hope maybe she's an angel now, maybe she [will] send some good vibes to the world.
The community is reeling from the incident, now designated as a terrorist attack, leading Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to announce plans to strengthen laws against hate-driven violence.
At the funeral, which saw mourners, including high-profile leaders, don bee-themed accessories as a tribute to Matilda’s favorite motif, her memory was honored in both words and actions. Various speakers, including Rabbi Yehoram Ulman, shared touching anecdotes and insights into the impact of her short life.
As the investigation continues into the motivations behind the massacre, the community remains vigilant, advocating love and unity in the face of adversity.
