As we approach the first anniversary of October 7th, 2023, it is clear that we are still living in an unprecedented time. The wounds from that day are still fresh, and many of us — both in Israel and around the world — are continuing to grapple with the personal and communal trauma caused by these ongoing events. For Jewish educators, this moment presents a unique challenge and opportunity. Now, more than ever, it is critical to engage students thoughtfully and sensitively as we navigate this anniversary together.
There are numerous ways to honor this auspicious anniversary with our students whether it’s a tekes (assembly), lesson or program. Below, we share planning mindsets, framing for a tekes and practical ideas and resources to help with your planning.
4 planning mindsets
1. The war is ongoing
The situation in Israel is still fluid. The war is ongoing, and the emotional and psychological landscape could shift leading up to the anniversary. As educators, it’s essential to build flexibility into our plans. Whether something hopeful or tragic occurs in the days or weeks before October 7th, we must be prepared to adapt our approach to meet the emotional state of our students and community.
2. This is personal
Many students may have family in Israel — some directly affected by the events of October 7th, whether through loss, trauma, or current military service. The stories of those who were killed, kidnapped, or displaced are not distant for many, but deeply personal. Sensitivity to the diverse emotional responses amongst our students is crucial.
As educators, we must balance the need for students to engage with these stories without overwhelming or re-traumatizing them. Allow students the option to participate in ways that feel safe for them. For instance, students with siblings in the IDF might find meaning in speaking during a ceremony or assembly. Other students may need to sit out.
3. Distinguishing from Yom HaZikaron
Israel already has a day to remember fallen soldiers and victims of terror, Yom HaZikaron. While we will share the tragic and heroic stories of those lost on October 7th, this day should not merely replicate Yom HaZikaron. Rather, educators should highlight the ongoing impact of that day — particularly for the hostages still in captivity, the families affected, and the resilience of Israeli society. A focus on heroism, survival, and the ongoing struggle will distinguish this commemoration, ensuring it serves a unique and important purpose in our communal calendar. See this article by Dr. Jonathan Golden for more suggestions on how to craft a meaningful tekes for October 7th.
4. Cultivating empathy for affected Israelis
The impact of October 7th remains deeply felt by millions of Israelis. To foster empathy, we suggest focusing on three groups:
- The Hatufim: The hostages still held captive in Gaza, along with their families, who continue to live in agonizing uncertainty.
- The Miluim: The reservists, many of whom are still fighting or stationed far from home, enduring the strain of extended separation from their families and jobs.
- The Mifunim: Nearly 100,000 Israelis who have been evacuated from their homes, particularly from the north, and continue to live in temporary accommodations. Their lives remain in flux, and their futures uncertain.
Cultivating empathy for these individuals and their families will help students connect emotionally and meaningfully with the ongoing reality faced by many in Israel.
Practical ideas for commemorating Oct. 7
Here are three simple and impactful ideas to help students connect with the groups most affected by October 7th:
Hatufim (The Hostages):
Show our new film Bring Them Home which tells the story of the hostages, their families, and the global Jewish solidarity surrounding their plight. Additionally, you can engage students in an art project inspired by the artwork displayed in Kikar Hahatufim, expressing their support for the hostages and their families.
Noflim (The Fallen):
Use our film Heroes of October 7th to share the heartbreaking story of two young people who lost their lives that day, both in the kibbutzim and in the army. This film offers a powerful way to personalize the national pain and sense of unity surrounding Oct. 7.
Miluim (The Reserve Soldiers):
Play the clip from the song Giborei Al (Superheroes) and use framing questions to spark discussion and appreciation for the Israeli reservists who have sacrificed so much to defend their country.
The first anniversary of October 7th requires thoughtful, sensitive, and flexible planning. By incorporating these mindsets and practical suggestions, educators can guide their students through a meaningful commemoration, helping them to both honor the past and engage with the present. Use our Oct. 7 Anniversary resource page for more resources!
