Our Collective Memory

In Jewish thought, memory is intertwined with the fabric of existence. The Hebrew term for memory, zachor, is not a passive recollection but an active, intentional act. This idea is deeply rooted in the Torah, where the commandment “to remember” underscores a continual engagement with past experiences, shaping present and future choices. This engagement is not just personal but collective, reflecting the Jewish emphasis on shared history and communal identity.

The idea of collective memory in Jewish tradition extends beyond individual experiences to encompass the collective narrative of the Jewish people. Festivals, rituals, and commemorative practices are integral to maintaining this collective memory. Events like Yom Kippur and Passover Seder nights are not merely annual observances but profound opportunities to relive and reinterpret the stories that define Jewish identity.

As we approach the one-year anniversary of October 7, an event of catastrophic impact, the importance of memory takes on an especially significant role. This milestone is not just a marker of time but a moment to engage deeply with the meaning and lessons of the past year. It is an opportunity to reflect on how collective memory can serve as a source of strength and continuity.

As we commemorate this date, my thoughts turn to the various individuals and communities who have been profoundly affected by the events of the past year, especially those connected to our community at NJY Camps. Their experiences and responses offer a poignant reflection on the themes of memory and resilience.

First and foremost, we hold in our hearts the 101 hostages still unaccounted for as of writing this. Among them is Liri Albag, an energetic young woman who was a camper at NJY Camps in 2018 and 2019. Those who had the privilege of sharing time with Liri remember her as a source of joy and enthusiasm. We still cherish the home-made videos she recorded at camp, capturing the vibrant experiences shared with friends. Also in our thoughts is Sagui Dekel Chen, a former camp counselor and woodshop specialist, who bravely risked his life to protect his pregnant wife and two children in their home in Kibbutz Nir Oz. They are patiently waiting for their father to return home, as are we.

We honor the countless lives lost on October 7 and throughout the subsequent conflict. This includes Sivan Elkabets, who was tragically killed in Kfar Aza alongside her partner, Naor Hasidim. Sivan’s family has a deep and enduring connection to our camps, with her siblings having spent over ten summers with us as campers and staff. Their story is a poignant reminder of the personal tragedies that have touched our community and a reflection of the broader, heart-wrenching loss experienced by so many.

Our thoughts are with the 111 campers and staff who recently joined us for Machane Am Echad (Camp One People), a program in partnership with the Tzofim (Israeli Scouts). These children, from communities such as Sderot, Ofakim, Ashkelon, and Kiryat Shmona, have faced profound hardship and displacement. Yet, their presence and ability to find joy in the midst of adversity serve as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Their courage and hope shine as a beacon, reminding us that light can emerge even in the darkest of circumstances.

We celebrate the four members of the musical collaborative Shufuni—Daniel, Rotem, Mira, and Linor—who hail from the Gaza Envelope. Their visit to our Cedar Lake Camp was a powerful display of strength and hope. Despite their own trauma, they uplifted our spirits and inspired us with their courage and generosity, showing that even in times of great difficulty, the power of music and human connection can bring tremendous comfort and unity.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the more than 100 staff members from our camps who formed our mishlachat (delegation) from Israel. Many had recently returned from serving as reservists in the IDF, where they were deeply involved in defending the people of Israel. Transitioning from the intense and demanding environment of military service to the joyful, lighthearted atmosphere of camp presented numerous challenges. Yet, their unwavering dedication to fully engaging in the camp experience, despite the weight of their recent duties and the distractions of their reality, shows remarkable strength of character.

We remember the 36 teens and adult staff from Kibbutz Beeri who joined us for an unexpected 72 hours following their programs at other Jewish camps in the Midwest. These young people had already faced significant trauma and displacement due to the conflict. Forced to leave their homes, they encountered further displacement when flight cancellations prevented their return to Israel. Despite these overwhelming challenges, their presence at our camp was a wonderful gift.

We reflect on the hundreds of Jewish high school and college-aged students who have attended or staffed our camps this year. This generation has confronted a surge in antisemitism and insecurity unlike any seen in recent decades. Their experiences over the past year have been deeply transformative and challenging. As they navigate a world where their identity and safety are increasingly scrutinized, we must make sure that there is support and community for them at every corner.

Last but certainly not least, we appreciate the large cohort of non-Jewish staff who joined our camps this summer. These young individuals from around the world, some of whom had never before met Jewish people or engaged with Jewish or Israeli culture, became vital allies and friends. Their involvement underscores the importance of expanding our circles of understanding and addressing antisemitism through education and empathy. Their curiosity, humility, and friendship are crucial in fostering a more inclusive and informed community.

In marking this one-year anniversary, we acknowledge and honor the diverse experiences and responses of all those connected to our community. Each person’s journey and memory contribute to a richer, more nuanced understanding of this past year. By coming together to remember and reflect, we strengthen our shared commitment to the values of resilience, belonging, and hope.

We pray for the safe return of the more than 100 hostages still waiting to come home. May they be reunited with their loved ones soon, and may their families find strength and solace in the days ahead. We pray for an end to the conflict that has caused so much pain and suffering. May peace prevail, and may the violence and upheaval give way to understanding and reconciliation. Let us hope for a future where such tragedies become a distant memory and where harmony and respect guide our interactions.

We also seek unity and healing for our community and beyond. May we come together, not just in remembrance, but in action and solidarity. Let our collective memory serve as a beacon of compassion, illuminating the path toward a more just and peaceful world.