Acknowledging Our Pain: Standing with the Jewish Community
October 7 marked two years since the largest massacre of Jews in modern times, and still, 48 hostages remain in captivity. Two years later, the Jewish community continues to grapple with the pain of loss, the trauma of war, and a wave of global antisemitism. As we reflect on this gut-wrenching date once more, I recognize that words cannot fully capture our collective sorrow. And yet, I hope you will still join me in these reflections.
We Will Not Forget
• Let us mourn the nearly 1,200 lives brutally taken on October 7.
• Let us honor the 1,152 IDF soldiers and security personnel killed protecting our Homeland.
• Let us remember the 251 hostages who were taken captive—many of whom were tortured, abused, starved, chained, or killed.
• Let us continue to demand the release of the 48 hostages still in captivity, both alive and deceased.
• Let us offer our eternal love and support to all grieving families, loved ones, friends, and communities.
My Apology to the Larger Jewish Community
• I am sorry that so much of the world has failed us over the past two years.
• I am sorry that antisemitism has persisted and intensified across all facets of life, causing even deeper wounds and distress.
• I am sorry that discussing October 7 can feel unsafe in therapy, leaving many to question whether they can openly process their grief and distress in what should be a safe space.
• I am sorry to those whose therapists responded with judgment, invalidation, or imposed personal beliefs, rather than providing a supportive space for processing grief, pain, and trauma.
• I am sorry that the mental health profession has failed, and continues to fail, to confront antisemitism, frequently fostering environments where it persists.
• I am sorry that these experiences have left many feeling isolated in spaces meant to provide unconditional support.
Let Us Recognize
• Let us recognize that each day, thousands of brave soldiers put their lives on the line, defending the very notion of Am Israel.
• Let us recognize the thousands of people volunteering in Israel or supporting from the diaspora, thereby strengthening our nation and our people.
• Let us recognize that when the Jewish community comes together, we are stronger.
• Let us recognize that, even in the face of the horrendous tragedy of October 7, there are tremendous stories of hope, courage, bravery, and sacrifice—stories that will be passed down for generations.
• Let us recognize the meaningful contributions of our non-Jewish allies and the impact of their support.
• Let us recognize that, despite unrelenting antisemitism, Jewish resilience lives within each of us, and our very existence serves as a testament.
• Let us recognize that antisemitism and antizionism do not define us. We have the power to write the future of our history—one rooted in unity, courage, and perseverance, as our people have done since the beginning of time.
My Hope to You
Processing the trauma of October 7 feels unending, especially while our 48 hostages are still not home. Coupled with persistent antisemitism, including within spaces meant for support, these unprecedented times feel even more isolating and alienating.
Even when it feels otherwise, many Jewish mental health professionals and allies worldwide are tirelessly fighting to address antisemitism in therapy spaces, so you can receive the unconditional support you deserve. There are also numerous resources available to help you process grief, trauma, and ongoing distress in a safe and supportive environment.
As this work continues, we will do everything we can to lift you and our fellow community through this ongoing time of need. And yet, my hope is that you know you are never alone. You are accompanied by generations of Jewish resilience, with a global Jewish and allied community standing by your side.
