The Jewish people have experienced 500 days of winter, 500 days with our loved ones still held in captivity, 500 days feeling our nation broken apart, 500 days confronted with the worst antisemitism we've seen in a generation, 500 days since our world was shattered.

 

In these trying times, we have also seen the very best of our communities flourish. We have seen extraordinary generosity, moving acts of kindness, and heartfelt efforts to support each other. We have seen political mobilization, a historic emergency campaign for Israel, and a surge in renewed interest in participating in Jewish communal life. We have seen extraordinary levels of support and backing from the United States government to fortify Israel.

 

As we look to the future, Jewish Federations will keep fighting every day to ensure the remaining hostages come home, that Israel can rebuild, that antisemitism is pushed back to the fringes of society, and that our Jewish communities can once again flourish in safety.