DAUPHIN COUNTY, Pa. — As the Israel-Hamas war enters its sixth week, members of the Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg rallied in support on Sunday of those taken hostage.
Described as a feeling of stillness and silence, over 240 chairs sat empty with no people to fill them.
“You’re going to see pictures of two-hundred and forty mothers, children and grandmothers that were waking up one morning just to live their day and were taken,” described President and CEO of the JFGH David Cohen.
Dozens of people gathered at JFGH to mourn the thousands killed during the Hamas attacks on October 7th and pray for the safe return of those taken hostage by the terrorist group.
For many rally attendees, it was an emotional afternoon; some were observed crying, while others hugged their loved ones tightly as if to never let go.
“We haven’t forgotten those who are lost, and we haven’t forgotten those who are held hostage. We will never forget.” Cohen said.
The names of each hostage rang out across the crowd, with many people seen holding signs of those that they know.
Spencer Markowitz was in Israel during the initial Hamas attack but was able to get out and return to the United States. During his time in Israel, he befriended many and has stayed in contact with those who are part of the Israeli Defense Forces.
“I try my best to be supportive and not ask too many questions because it’s obviously a hard time for them,” Markowitz expressed.
Ayelet Shanken, a member of the JFGH was also in attendance at the rally. She describes the afternoon as a call to people’s humanity.
“It’s beyond peace. The ability to live the way you want peacefully, the way to practice your religion, your ability to love them, to be yourself in any area of the world,” Shanken voiced.
And Cohen agrees.
“What is eventually going to overcome this crisis in the Middle East are people realizing that you can be from different cultures, different backgrounds, different faiths and live next to each other,” Cohen stated.