Milwaukee Jewish Federation and partners from throughout the community are planning a commemoration of the attacks of Oct. 7, set for the one-year anniversary, which this year falls between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.
The commemoration is set for Monday, Oct. 7, 2024.
The horrific day of the attacks was a turning point in modern Jewish history, both because of the tragic depth of it all and the monumental events that have followed, according to organizers. Hamas led the attacks, which would turn this past Oct. 7 into Israel’s deadliest day in its 75-year history. During the incursion from Gaza into Israel, 251 hostages were taken, and about 1,200 people were killed amid acts of rape and brutality, according to the Times of Israel.
The event will exist in two parts, both at the Harry & Rose Samson Family Jewish Community Center, 6255 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Whitefish Bay. “It gives people a way to process in a way that makes sense to them,” said Tziporah Altman-Shafer, vice president of Jewish communal life and learning for the Federation.
One part will be a 7 p.m. event focused on commemoration, with community members in attendance. Doors open at 6 p.m. The other, available before and after the event, will be related exhibits, said Community Shlicha Noa Gerassi.
These plans are all subject to change. Check JewishFederation.org for updates.
Altman-Shafer noted that the community came together for mutual support, on Oct. 9, soon after the attacks, and this will be an opportunity to do so again. About 1,000 people attended the Oct. 9 event, with thousands more watching a livestream.
The event co-chairs are Elana Karan and Melissa Barnett and Jamie Miller.
The story of the Jewish people is one of overcoming adversity, fighting back against impossible odds, facing horrific challenges, and coming out stronger on the other side, according to organizers. By coming together to pay tribute to the fallen and the heroes, we are expressing our heartfelt and unwavering solidarity with Israel and its people.
The Federation would like to publicize other events in the community commemorating Oct. 7. If you’re planning an event, contact Gerassi at noag@milwaukeejewish.org.
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Local media covered the Community Solidarity Gathering for Israel,” after the attacks of Oct. 7, held on Oct. 9 at Congregation Shalom. A follow-up event is planned for the one-year anniversary of the attacks, at the Harry & Rose Samson Family Jewish Community Center.