Neshama 32 Learns Firsthand About October 7 Attack in Israel

On Wednesday, February 28 and Thursday, February 29, Neshama embarked on a journey to begin learning firsthand about the atrocities of the Hamas attack on October 7.

 

These initial days in Israel were crucial for setting the context for their subsequent interactions, as they seek to deepen their understanding of the people, the land, and the State of Israel during their 12-week stay. This foundational experience is essential for comprehending contemporary Israel and engaging in meaningful conversations post-October 7.

 

The decision to proceed with Neshama's trip dates as planned this year was significantly influenced by the opportunity to bear witness. It was deemed essential for the school to have its senior class in Israel during such a pivotal moment in history. While the dates remain unchanged, the itinerary is being adjusted for security precautions and, just as importantly, to provide opportunities for educational and volunteer learning directly focused on the aftermath of the October 7 attack.

 

On the eve of their visit, each Mishpacha (processing group) within Neshama convened to prepare presentations on various aspects of the October 7 attack, aiming to share these insights with the entire group. Their journey continued on Wednesday to Har Herzl, where they paid respects at the recent gravesites of soldiers who had fallen in the last four months. Yuval, Jonas and Tori delivered presentations on the fallen soldiers they were honoring by visiting their grave site. In a serendipitous encounter, they met with soon-to-be graduates of the IDF officers' training program, also visiting the gravesites. These individuals shared personal stories of comrades lost in the recent months, enriching the group's understanding and emotional connection to the event. For example, the presentation on fallen IDF soldier Aner Shapira, who heroically saved lives during the attack, was further illuminated by the firsthand account of one of Aner's friends at Har Herzl, leaving a lasting impact on the seniors.

 

Subsequently, the group visited the hostage families' tent, strategically placed across from the Prime Minister's residence in Jerusalem, close to the Agron Youth Hostel, Neshama's base. There, they supported the families and engaged in a street protest chanting "Bring Them Home," dedicating their time and voices to the cause.

 

The following morning, they ventured to sites affected by the attack, starting with the Nova Festival site near Kibbutz Re'im. The site, where 364 lives were lost and hundreds were wounded and 40 were taken hostage during the attack, now features art installations, trees, and flowers commemorating the victims. The group was moved by the narratives of the tragic day as they toured the site.

 

Their journey led them to Kibbutz Saad, where they learned about the miraculous events that spared the residents during the attack. They volunteered to help beautify the Kibbutz, preparing it for the return of its inhabitants.

 

Their emotionally charged visit culminated in joining the hostage family protest march, a significant event that began on Wednesday, February 28 and concludes in Jerusalem on Saturday, March 2. Marching approximately 13 miles from Beit Govrin to Beit Shemesh alongside the families, the day concluded with a poignant ceremony that deeply moved all participants.