Northshore Residents, Jewish Leaders Call for Release of Gaza Hostages One Year After October 7th Attack

Chicago Area Marks One Year Since Hamas Attack in Israel

The Chicago area marked one year since the attack on Israel by Hamas.

The Brief

• • Jewish leaders, northshore residents, and dignitaries gathered in Skokie for a prayer event organized by the Jewish United Fund.
  • The event featured reflections on hostages held in Gaza, including a story from a survivor of the Nova music festival attack.
  • AM Shalom synagogue in Glencoe expanded its “Bring Them Home” installation to honor the remaining hostages.

Prayer Event and Reflections

Jewish leaders, residents from Chicago’s north shore, and local dignitaries came together Monday evening in Skokie for an emotional event focused on Israeli hostages still being held in Gaza.

Organized by the Jewish United Fund, the gathering included prayers and reflections for the hostages, many of whom have been held now for a year.

Personal Stories and Tributes

Among the speakers was the grandmother of Hersh Goldberg Polin, a Chicago native who was killed after being held captive by Hamas militants. Polin had been one of 250 people taken hostage during the Nova music festival in Israel last year.

Also at the festival that day was 24-year-old Shahar Gabay, who narrowly escaped the violence. In a separate interview with FOX 32, Gabay recalled the terrifying moment when missiles started to fall, killing his friends.

“Bring Them Home” Installation

Earlier in Glencoe, AM Shalom synagogue expanded its “Bring Them Home” installation, which features chairs representing the hostages. This week, the synagogue added 101 flowers to symbolize the remaining Israeli hostages still held in Gaza. The display includes photos of hostages, with ages ranging from as young as 4 months old to 77 years old.

Call to Action

The event provided a space for collective grief, hope, and a strong call for the safe return of the remaining hostages.

Conclusion

The prayer event and reflections served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for the safe release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza. As the community continues to advocate for their freedom, it is essential to remain steadfast in our support and commitment to their safe return.

FAQs

* Who organized the prayer event?
The Jewish United Fund organized the prayer event.
* How many people were taken hostage during the Nova music festival attack?
250 people were taken hostage during the Nova music festival attack.
* How many flowers were added to the “Bring Them Home” installation?
101 flowers were added to the “Bring Them Home” installation to symbolize the remaining Israeli hostages still held in Gaza.