October 7 hero to speak at one-year anniversary commemoration at UF

Press release from Chabad UF Jewish Student & Community Center

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – In commemoration of one year since the attacks on October 7th, the deadliest attack on Jewish people since the Holocaust, a main event open to the public will be held at the University of Florida Auditorium (333 Newell Drive – corner of Union Road & Newell Drive) on Monday, October 7, 2024. Doors open at 6:00 pm. This event will bring the entire community together and demonstrate solidarity with Israel.

On October 7, 2023, Hamas and other Gaza-based terrorist groups attacked Israeli cities, towns, and settlements, launching a full-scale invasion and firing thousands of rockets, brutally murdering over 1,200 innocent people and plunging Israel into war.

“As we navigate the first anniversary of this dark day, we remember those who were senselessly murdered and the stories of survival, resilience, and heroism that demonstrate the indomitable spirit of Israel and the Jewish people,” says Chanie Goldman, Co-director of Chabad UF and organizer of the event.

The event will feature ISRAEL PRIZE HERO Menachem Kalmenson who will share his miraculous and heroic story. Kalmenson is winner of Israel’s highest civic honor for his unparalleled bravery and strength on October 7th, saving over one hundred lives from Kibbutz Be’eri. He is traveling from Israel to inspire the audience in person.

The event will also include MEMORIAL, PSALMS & SONG with a Live Performance by acclaimed Cantor Aryeh Hurwitz, in memory of the 1,200 people who were tragically murdered and will feature prayers for the safe return of the hostages still being held in Gaza.

RSVP is required: www.JewishGator.com/October7

The event is Co-sponsored by: Chabad UF Jewish Student & Community Center, UF Bud Shorstein Center for Jewish Studies, Tikvah, Students Supporting Israel, Jewish Federation of North America, Chabad on Campus International, and individual donors.

“At the campus and community-wide event to commemorate one year since the horrific attacks in Israel that changed our world forever, we will remember the lives lost, pray for those still in captivity, honor the survivors and heroes, and unite in our communal resilience and solidarity with Israel,” says Daniel Mundlak, Chabad UF Student President. “In light of the latest attack by Iran of over 180 ballistic missiles, the largest rocket attack Israel has sustained in its history, it behooves all peace-loving people to come together in support and solidarity of Israel,” added Rabbi Berl Goldman, Director at Chabad UF and organizer of the event.

University Police and security will be present. Photo ID will be required to enter the event. No bags allowed.