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Dear Friends,
Though Action-PSJ does not work directly in Israel, our hearts hold the weight of two wars. As the war in Ukraine approaches its third year—something we never could have fathomed—we stand in solidarity with the people there and with our community in Israel who now face the horrors of war on their own soil. The world once believed that both conflicts would be short-lived, but we are here, months and years later, witnessing the unfathomable persistence of pain, displacement, and rising antisemitism.
Today, on October 7th, we face a day of reflection and grief. The terrorist attacks, mass killings, and ongoing destruction have left a wound that continues to bleed as hostages remain in captivity and violence rages.
How do we, as a community, move forward? How do we find the strength to continue? My rabbi and colleagues often speak of the importance of three intertwined paths: feeling, learning, and acting—all within the embrace of community. First, we must feel. Allow yourself to connect with the deep emotions these tragedies stir, whether grief, anger, or despair. Feel them fully because to deny them is to deny our humanity.
Next, we learn. Stay engaged with the ever-changing realities on the ground—both the suffering and the resilience. In the darkness, there are also moments of light—moments that, through your support, are made possible. Families are cared for, lives are touched, and hope is extended to the isolated and vulnerable.
Finally, we act. Even when the scope of suffering seems beyond comprehension, our individual actions—no matter how small—can combat the darkness. Helping one person feel seen, valued, and less alone is a profound act of defiance against despair. We may not end wars, but we can bring hope and dignity to those who suffer.
On this day of mourning and remembrance, I invite you to grieve, reflect, and begin thinking about ways we can also hope. For hope, as Rachel Goldberg—mother of Hersh Goldberg-Polin z”l (a participant on a teen leadership trip to Israel that I led in 2017)—reminded us, is mandatory.
Hersh was abducted from the Nova Music Festival and later mercilessly executed. His brutal loss has touched me deeply, as I had the privilege of knowing him during that trip and witnessing his growth, leadership, and kindness. His life reminds us that our work must continue and that we must hold onto hope even in unimaginable grief. May his memory be a revolution.
Let us continue to feel, learn, and act for Hersh z”l, Rachel, the elderly in Ukraine enduring horrific conditions, and all those whose lives we strive to better. Together, our impact will create a collective light—a light of hope that, even in the darkest of times, refuses to be extinguished.
With prayers for peace and justice,
Executive Director, Action-PSJ
Chair, Action for Ukraine
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