Nearly one year ago, Hamas terrorists launched a barrage of rockets from the Gaza Strip, clearing the way for thousands of soldiers and gunmen to invade and wreak havoc on Israel.
Some 1,200 Israelis were killed during the initial incursion, many of them civilians, including hundreds of women and children.
In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared his country at war, launching a retaliatory crusade that has since decimated the Gaza Strip. Since the start of conflict, more than 43,000 Palestinians have been killed.
Here’s what New Yorkers can do to mark the one-year anniversary of the invasion:
Art
October 7: Through the Soldier’s Lens
Where: The Chelsea Hall — 236 West 23rd Street, Manhattan
When: Monday, Oct. 7, 6 p.m.
Offering a unique perspective on conflict and resilience through the eyes of a solider, Shahar Arviv‘s photo exhibition, “Battlefield Through the Lens,” features 30 images showcasing “moments of courage, brotherhood, and survival.”
A viewing of the exhibit is followed by a live discussion with the photographer. All ticket proceeds and 20% of the proceeds from the sale of photographs will be donated to Chabad of Tzfat and The Chelsea Shul, supporting ongoing community efforts as well as families impacted by missile attacks.
The evening will also include kosher catering and an open bar.
Community contribution of $55.20
Films
“October 7th: Voices of Pain, Hope and Heroism”
Where: AMC Empire 25 — 234 West 42nd Street, Manhattan
When: Monday, Oct. 7, 7:15 p.m.
This NYC screening also marks the world premiere of a groundbreaking, original documentary produced by Aish New York. It portrays “the indomitable Jewish spirit through five families’ extraordinary journeys in the wake of the October 7th, 2023 tragedy in Israel.”
The viewing will be followed by a discussion with Aish Global COO Rabbi Elliot Mathias, along with panelists Zach Sage Fox, Lizzy Savetsky, Tanya Zuckerbrot and Ari Ackerman.
Cost: $12.51
“We Will Dance Again”
Where: Streaming on Paramount+ and Showtime
When: Available now
This harrowing documentary shows the massacre unfold at the Nova Music Festival, a celebration of music, peace and freedom that turned into a slaughter amid Hamas’ invasion into Israel.
The film is graphic and not recommended for all ages.
Free with streaming subscriptions
Panels
One Year Later: Israel, the Middle East War and U.S.-Israel Relations
Where: 92nd Street Y — 1395 Lexington Avenue, Manhattan
When: Sunday, Oct. 6, 8 p.m.
A discussion and analysis of the war in Gaza, as well as Israel’s domestic political situation and U.S.-Israeli relations, will feature experts and journalists including Dennis Ross, Jane Harman and Nadav Eyal. The event is moderated by Keren Yarhi-Milo, the dean of Columbia’s School of International and Public Affairs.
Tickets starting at $18
Memorials
October 7 Brooklyn Memorial Service
Where: Congregation Beth Elohim — 274 Garfield Place, Brooklyn
When: Sunday, Oct. 6, 8 p.m.
This service will offer an opportunity for community members to reflect on the year since the attack on Israel and share in mourning and remembrance with clergy from around Brownstone Brooklyn.
Free
October 7th First Anniversary Commemoration
Where: Broadway Pedestrian Plaza — 1535 Broadway, Manhattan
When: Monday, Oct. 7, 5-8 p.m.
The World Values Network will host a ceremony honoring the memory of those killed on Oct. 7, the hostages still in Gaza and the soldiers fighting for their freedom. It will be followed by a sit-down dinner nearby for VIP participants.
$1 minimum donation required
Candlelit Commemoration
Where: Jewish Community Center Headquarters — 10-29 48th Ave, Long Island City
When: Monday, Oct. 7, 6 p.m.
An evening of prayers and songs will culminate in a candlelit vigil honoring the victims of last year’s attack and the hostages who still remain trapped in Gaza. It will also feature speeches from members of the community, including Rabbi Zev Wineberg of the JCC-Chabad.
Those in attendance will also have a chance to speak if they wish.
Free
The October 7th Commemoration Ceremony
Where: Kings Bay Y — 3495 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn
When: Monday, Oct. 7, 6:30 p.m.
Atir Vinnikov, who survived the Oct. 7 attack on the Nova Music Festival, will discuss his harrowing experience while sharing his “story of hope and survival.”
Free
October 7th Memorial Event
Where: Sephardic Community Center — 1901 Ocean Parkway, Brooklyn
When: Monday, Oct. 7, 8 p.m. (doors open at 7:30 p.m.)
This memorial honors former Barkai Yeshivah student Ariel Eliyahu, a member of the 77th Armored Battalion, 7th Brigade, who was killed while battling back Hamas invaders in Kibbutz Be’eri. There will also be a special tribute to those killed in battle by Project Heroes.
Free
Virtual (Anywhere)
Jewish Democratic Council of America’s One Year Later
When: Monday, Oct. 7, 12 p.m.
A digital gathering to mark a year since Hamas’ violent invasion of Israel will feature guests including hostage and advocate Aviva Siegel, North Carolina Congresswoman Kathy Manning, Illinois Congressman Brad Schneider, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens, Florida Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz and U.S. Director of the Hostages and Missing Families Forum Matan Sivek.
Free
A Year of Mourning
When: Monday, Oct. 7, 2 p.m.
This online event is hosted by Rabbi Emily Cohen and Hey Alma, a feminist Jewish culture website and online community. Its aim is to give participants a space to process difficult emotions and reflect on a year full of grief and challenges “for Jews, for Muslims and for everyone affected by the ongoing violence and bloodshed.”
Free