News

I was in our local synagogue in Los Angeles a year ago today, when the Rabbi stopped the services and made an announcement: "A catastrophe has happened in Israel". My mind began racing and my nerves kicked in. Much of my family and so many of my friends live in Israel. But I couldn't even begin to fathom the horrors of what had actually happened, and how much that would affect things today for our Jewish community around the world, and for Israel.

It's really important for us to pause today and take a moment to remember and honor the lives affected by the tragic events of October 7th. This day marks a significant moment in our collective memory, one that deeply touches our Jewish community and reminds us of the importance of unity, resilience, and hope.

JGO stands with Jewish communities around the world to remember those whose lives were tragically lost, and our hearts are with the families and friends of the 101 hostages who are still in Hamas captivity.

Today, JGO has sponsored and organized memorial events on grad campuses around North America with hundreds of students participating, and we are actively taking part in our Jewish traditions that value learning, compassion, and strength which we have always used to persevere through challenging times. Let us take this day to reflect on our shared history, to support one another, and to carry forward the lessons of the past year as we continue to build a Jewish future grounded in peace and understanding.

Together, we honor the memories of those we have lost and reaffirm our commitment to a better, brighter world.