Friends,
This weekend, on Israel’s Memorial Day, tens of thousands of Israelis and Palestinians will gather together for a joint service to remember those lost to war and terror.
It’s a truly powerful statement, especially at this moment: Thousands of people – those most acutely devastated by the ongoing conflict – refusing to turn away from the pain and suffering of the other side.
Looking each other in the eye. Feeling each other’s pain. United in grief, committed to peace.
J Street is once again proud to co-sponsor the event, and we invite our supporters to join hundreds of thousands from across Israel, Palestine and around the world to attend virtually. You can find more information and the registration link here >>
The event is co-hosted by our friends Combatants for Peace and the Parents Circle – Families Forum – the latter of which is an organization comprised of Israelis and Palestinians whose loved ones have been killed in the conflict. It’s one of the few advocacy groups that would like not to have any new members.
In the aftermath of October 7 and the ongoing war in Gaza, however, this weekend’s memorial services will be a particularly challenging and personal experience for far too many. The grief for those who have lost loved ones, or whose relatives are currently held hostage or in harm’s way, is simply too much to bear.
This year, organizers plan to center the service around the stories of children caught in the horrors of this conflict. Children whose only crime was being born Palestinian or Israeli.
I’ve always found this service deeply emotional and challenging, but at the same time deeply hopeful and inspirational. On display is not only the sharpest edge of this painful conflict, but the very best of humanity from Israelis and Palestinians alike.
Having just returned from Israel myself, I can tell you that these reconciliation and coexistence projects are more important than ever.
I hope you’re able to join us. Together, let’s recommit ourselves to handing down a better future to the next generation. Learn more and register to join here >>
Yours sincerely,
Adina Vogel Ayalon
Vice President and Chief of Staff, J Street
