Compiled by: Matt Reingold
Israelis speak about life before October 7, 2023, and life since October 7, 2023. On that awful day, Hamas terrorists infiltrated southern Israel and murdered 1200 people and took approximately 250 people hostage. Every Israeli was affected in some way. Civilians living in the Gaza Envelope and in Israel’s northern communities were evacuated and relocated away from the threat of rockets being fired by Hamas from Gaza or by Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. The army was mobilized and reservists were called up to fight against Hamas and to help rescue the hostages. In the first months after October 7, Israeli society was unified and Israelis rallied around the idea that “yachad nenatzeach”, together we will win. In the two years since October 7, 2023, Israeli society has endured moments of deep triumph and moments of profound tragedy. The return of living hostages yields great celebration alongside the terrible realization that some hostages will not return to their families.
This lesson is designed to provide students with an opportunity to press pause on the constant news cycle and to explore their feelings towards October 7 by examining Israeli cartoons that have been illustrated over the last two years. Art has the power to give voice to raw emotions and to help students better make sense of what they are feeling. This lesson is designed to help educators create space in their classroom for learners to process their own thoughts and feelings about October 7, Israel’s continued efforts to secure the release of the remaining hostages, and Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza.
