The funeral of former Chief Justice Arthur Chaskalson is to take place in the Reform section of Westpark cemetery on Monday 3 December 2012 at 12.00. Rabbi Dr Robert Ash of Beit Emanuel will be officiating at the funeral
The family have also requested that Justice Arthur Chaskalson not be buried in the “Hero’s Acre” section, but in the normal Progressive section of the cemetery. It is expected that this may be the largest funeral ever held in the Progressive section, so those wishing to attend are advised to arrive early.
The SAUPJ has issued the following statement:
The SAUPJ mourns the passing of the Hon. Justice Arthur Chaskalson. A member of President Nelson Mandela’s defence team in the Rivonia Trial and first President of South Africa’s Constitutional Court, he remained ever true to his liberal vision of a society founded in justice, law and equality.
Justice Chaskalson regularly stated his progressive view of life, the world and religion. He spoke at the 70th anniversary celebration of the Mother Synagogue of the Progressive movement, Temple Israel in Hillbrow in 2006. His family’s association with Progressive synagogues including Beit Emanuel and Bet David remains as an enduring statement of their commitment that their father and grandfather made to those values through his daily living.
We extend our sincere condolences to his wife Lorraine, children Mathew and Jerome, grandchildren and the many students, disciples and colleagues whom he mentored through a long, illustrious and internationally acclaimed career aimed at building a society founded in the precept of Torah, Tzedek tzedek tirdof-Surely, it is justice that you shall pursue.
Steve Lurie, SAUPJ Chairman
Rabbi Robert Jacobs, SAAPR Chairman
