Reflecting on the anniversary of the Oct. 7 massacre

… and planning for the future

By Ida Margolis and Shelley Lieb

As GenShoah embarks upon another season it is also the time when many of our members celebrate a new year. But as we celebrate, it is likely that our hearts are filled with a mixture of emotions. Rosh Hashanah is a time of renewal, reflection and hope. Yet this year, our reflections are shadowed by the somber memory of the tragic massacre that occurred one year ago on Oct. 7 in Israel.

It was so frightening to wake to the news of Netanyahu saying, “Israel is at war.” On that day, one year ago, the land of Israel was stained with the blood of innocent lives. Families were torn apart, communities were shattered and a nation mourned. Just as in GenShoah, we honor the memory of those who perished in the Holocaust, and we must honor the memory of those who perished on Oct. 7, 2023 by recalling their names, their faces and their stories. But more than that, we must ensure that their legacy is not one of hatred or despair, but of hope and unity — and a time to renew our commitment to working for peace and justice.

How can we contribute to a world where violence is no longer possible? How

can we be agents of peace in a time of conflict? The memory of the Holocaust and of Oct. 7 must inspire us to build a future where all children can live in safety and peace. We should not surrender to hate. The Jewish people have been known for choosing life and hope as well as remembering. Many in our GenShoah group wear pins that say “Zachor” in Hebrew or “Remember” in English. This year, we remember not only those murdered in the Holocaust, but the souls of those who were lost Oct. 7. May their memories be a blessing, and may their legacy inspire us to build a better world. And let us hope for a year that brings peace, justice and light into places of darkness.

Shanah Tovah U’metukah — a good and sweet year to you all. May this year bring us closer to peace and understanding. We hope that you will be able to join us at some of the programs in the season ahead and suggest future programs. Please note that our programs are listed in the monthly GenShoah newsletter, which is available at no cost. Simply contact Shelley at liebro@gmail.com.

Please especially note the many November programs.

• Nov. 3: “Letters to Sala” a play at FGCU, 2 p.m. with a talkback (contact Shelley to RSVP).

• Nov. 6: Movies that Matter, “Pay or Die,” online with a discussion from 2-3 p.m., RSVP to hmcec.org for link.

• Nov. 14, 11 a.m.: Discussion of the book “The People on the Beach: Journeys to Freedom After the Holocaust” by Rosie Whitehouse (RSVP to ekafer520@ gmail.com).

• Nov. 17, 2:30 p.m.: Annual Kristallnacht Commemoration at St. John the Evangelist Church.

All GenShoah members should have received an email about the special “Letters to Sala” performance with a talkback on Nov. 3. If you would like more information about this play, GenShoah or have any questions, contact Shelley at liebro@gmail.com.

And thank you to those who have helped us in the past and who have inspired programs and articles. Please note that GenShoah SWFL welcomes not only 2Gs, but all who are interested in our mission:

• Promotion of Holocaust education and human rights

• Preservation of the history and memories of the Holocaust

• Connection of the Second Generation with one another

• Support of the Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center of Southwest Florida