October 9, 2023 – NCJW NY stands with Israel
Saturday was truly a dark day in Israel. Hundreds of Israeli civilians murdered. Dozens captured by Hamas. At least 1,000 injured. And thousands of rockets fired. Most people we know in Israel, including NCJW professionals who live there, spent the day in bomb shelters and know someone hurt, missing, or killed. It’s devastating. We mourn with them.
On Saturday, our national office posted this statement from National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) that can also be found on Twitter and Facebook).
“We are outraged and heartbroken by the tragic events unfolding in Israel today, including Hamas infiltrating southern Israel and carrying out the reprehensible act of targeting, kidnapping, and killing Israeli civilians. This brutal attack deliberately occurred on a day of religious significance for the Jewish people, when many refrain from technology and can’t receive safety alerts.”
“Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah should be days of spiritual contemplation and celebration, but Israelis now mourn lives lost, seek refuge in bomb shelters from incoming rockets, and are in an official state of war. NCJW unequivocally condemns this violence from Hamas and urgently calls for a peaceful resolution, allowing Israelis, Palestinians, and all in the region to live in safety.”
NCJW has worked in Israel since its founding. We care deeply about the Israeli people. We care about Israel’s future as a Jewish and democratic state. We are absolutely heartbroken at the escalation of violence and death leading to a state of war.
After a harrowing weekend, we carry with us the weight of challenges faced. Israel is at war. We have much to mourn. With our hearts heavy, we commit to being a part of making things better.
Above all, beyond the headlines and political complexities, there are real people — parents, children, families — yearning for safety and peace. We must not lose sight of them. Every life is precious and deserving of safety, peace, and a future free from fear.
In peace,
Andrea Salwen Kopel
Executive Director
Kim Chirls
President