One year has passed since the devastating Hamas attacks on Israel, and the echoes of pain and resilience resonate deeply within the communities affected. This anniversary has provoked reflection not only among those directly impacted but also within the broader Jewish diaspora, particularly those residing outside Israel. The change is palpable and intertwined with heightened emotions, mourning, and, perhaps unexpectedly, hope.
For many, this date marks the beginning of not just a struggle for survival and national identity but also reveals the invisible wounds of trauma. Shirel Golan, for example, was one of the survivors at the Nova Music Festival, where the attacks unfolded on October 7, 2023. She recently succumbed to her battles with depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following the events, which her family believe could have been more adequately addressed by health authorities. Shirel's story is not just her own; it's reflective of numerous others grappling with the aftermath of violence and terror.
“Her health problems began immediately after the October 7 attack,” stated her brother, Eyal Golan. The family recounts how vibrant Shirel once was, joyfully driving to help loved ones, only to become reclusive, consumed by the psychological scars left by the massacre. “She didn’t come out from the house. She didn’t come to visit us, she was withdrawn,” Eyal shared, underscoring the dramatic transformation and isolation Shirel faced post-attack.
The family's heartbreak culminated on what should have been Shirel’s birthday, as she was discovered unresponsive, leading to waves of guilt and anger directed toward the Israeli health authorities. Despite being aware of the festival attendees and their trauma, system support felt conspicuously absent. “If someone survived, let’s help them,” Eyal remarked, pointing out the perceived negligence of authorities who only provided assistance to those who actively sought it, leaving many isolated like Shirel. Experts echo this sentiment, stating the government needs to amplify its support systems for those suffering silently.
This tragic narrative is only part of the larger picture confronting the Jewish community, particularly with antisemitic sentiments surging across the United States, which have tripled since the attacks. According to preliminary data from the Anti-Defamation League, incidents rose alarmingly from 3,325 to over 10,000 within the year following the attacks. ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt passionately stated, “Jewish Americans haven’t had a single moment of respite... Instead, we’ve faced a shocking number of antisemitic threats.” Meanwhile, police have heightened patrols around Jewish and Muslim institutions, reacting to this atmosphere of fear.
On college campuses, the atmosphere has transformed dramatically, facing protests supporting Palestinian rights. While most demonstrations remain peaceful, they have also been marred by intense clashes and incidents of intimidation directed toward Jewish students. “The Jewish community is uniquely – uniquely – targeted by pretty much every terrorist organization across the spectrum,” noted FBI Director Christopher Wray, highlighting the alarming statistics about hate crimes against Jews compared to other religious groups.
Despite the pressing challenges faced by the Jewish community, there have also been tales of resilience and dedication to maintain traditions honoring their heritage. Jewish congregations across Palm Beach are preparing to celebrate Simchat Torah, which usually embodies joy and renewal but carries the weight of remembrance this year. Planned events include memorials for the nearly 1,200 lives lost during the October 7 attacks, demonstrating the community's need to blend celebration with reflection.
Rabbi Moshe Scheiner from the Palm Beach Synagogue shared his commitment to honoring the survivors from the Nova Festival, remarking, “They will dance again... because we will never allow our enemies to take away our joy.” The juxtaposition of grief and celebration is capturing the current Jewish experience, forging connections between shared suffering and communal strength.
It's evident the nuances of this anniversary resonate through different avenues—some recalling anguish and loss, others embracing hope and community resilience. The collective grief of the Jewish people continues to surface as they navigate through this challenging time, seeking healing both individually and collectively.
Reflecting on her decision to join Judaism post-October 7, Rabbi David Kalb expressed admiration for those making the brave choice amid increasing antisemitism, illustrating how challenges can sometimes lead to positive transformation and dedication to faith.
Though the specter of violence and trauma lingers, the Jewish community's response has shown remarkable courage. Across Palm Beach, various synagogues have been preparing not only to observe Simchat Torah but also to celebrate community spirit, resilience, and the remembrance of those lost. Each of these actions, whether grieving, honoring, or reflecting, stitches another thread of unity among those affected by the attacks.
