Last October 7, I awoke to a headline that Hamas forces were striking Israel. It was a sunny Saturday morning in autumn, and I went ahead with my scheduled bike ride. Upon my return, the news reports had deepened and widened. The day continued, more news flowed, and reality started to set in late in the afternoon. This was an attack like no other, terror beyond anything seen before in Israel, and a sick and vile disregard for human lifeโฆmore specifically, Jewish human life.
Here we are a year later, with little explanation, underwhelming support from the world and local neighbors, filled with a palpable sense of fear, dismay, anger, and thankfully, because itโs our way, steadfast hope.
A year later weโve seen our community and close allies embrace and hold each other up. The Jewish community has unified locally and globally like never before. One great example is Seattleโs communal gathering this evening, which brings together 36 organizations, their constituents, and anyone else who wishes to connect and commemorate with the community.
The SJCC has embraced faces we see daily, occasional visitors, and returning friends. Weโve held space for the broad community and tried to ease the unique pain of the reeling Israelis who call the Seattle area home. Weโve partnered with organizations, participated in communal initiatives, attended civic meetings, and worked to remind the world that Israel has the right to exist and defend herself, and that hatred of Jews is a sick historic ill that has resulted in horrific atrocities. There is no place for it anywhere on Earth, including in the greater Seattle area.
As we move into day 367, we continue to pray for the safe freedom of the hostages still enduring captivity. We hope that the violence stops and that humanity can together find a way forward, preserving our gifts of diversity, and assuring the security and safety of Jewish people everywhere.
The images in the banner above are a sampling of the art pieces that will be on display at the SJCC from October 20-November 24. They were created by children from across Israel as a way to process their pain. Click here for details on viewing times and events.
Hereโs to hoping the second year after October 7, 2023, brings inspired and safe outcomes. We remember the innumerable people lost since the attacks and may every memory be a blessing.
Amy Lavin
SJCC CEO
