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Community Corner

HMTC Hosts Memorial to Honor Victims of October 7th Hamas Attack

Community gathers to honor victims and stand up against hate

P. Frome, Community Contributor
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Shir Zohar shares her harrowing account of the October 7th attack, offering a firsthand perspective on the tragic events.
Shir Zohar shares her harrowing account of the October 7th attack, offering a firsthand perspective on the tragic events. (Photo courtesy HMTC.)

On Sunday, October 6, 2024, the Holocaust Memorial & Tolerance Center (HMTC) held a solemn outdoor commemoration to honor the victims of the October 7th Hamas attack on Israeli civilians. The event featured a poignant display of a memorial stone and plaque, symbolizing the lives lost and the community’s commitment to remembrance.

Stone and Plaque
A poignant view of the memorial stone and plaque dedicated to the victims symbolizes the community’s commitment to remembrance.
A close-up of the memorial plaque, honoring the lives lost in the October 7th Hamas attack.

The ceremony was opened by HMTC Executive Director Moji Pourmoradi, who emphasized the importance of honoring those who perished in the brutal attack. Pourmoradi expressed her deep gratitude for the outpouring of support and solidarity shown by those in attendance, underscoring the collective effort needed to stand with Israel during such grief.

The ceremony opens with Moji Pourmoradi, Executive Director of HMTC, and Rabbi Howard Stecker of Temple Israel of Great leading all gathered in singing the Star Spangled Banner followed by Hatikva.
Congressman Tom Suozzi delivers heartfelt remarks reaffirming his unwavering support for the Jewish community and Israel.
Nearly 200 attendees gather for the solemn dedication, united in remembrance and solidarity.

Rabbi Howard Stecker led the audience in a prayer for the hostages taken during the attack, adding a spiritual dimension to the event. U.S. Congressman Tom Suozzi followed with remarks reaffirming his unwavering support for the Jewish community and the State of Israel. Suozzi’s words resonated with many, reinforcing the importance of standing united in the face of terror.

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Chairs adorned with images of the victims serve as a powerful reminder of those lost in the October 7th attack.

One of the most powerful moments came when Shir Zohar, a survivor of the Nova Festival, shared her harrowing account of October 7, 2023. Zohar detailed her narrow escape from the violent attack, painting a vivid picture of the horror she experienced at the hands of Hamas militants.

Chairman Alan Mindel delivers closing remarks, urging attendees to confront hatred and stand united.

Board Members Russell Burman, Michael Trager, and Jolanta Zamecka took to the podium next, reading the names of American citizens who lost their lives in the massacre. Their readings brought the global impact of the tragedy into sharp focus, reminding attendees of the far-reaching consequences of the violence.

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Board Members Jolanta Zamecka, Russell Burman, and Michael Trager read the names of the American lives lost, highlighting the tragedy’s global impact.

The emotional tone continued as Holocaust survivor Renee Silver recited "The Oak Tree" by Johnny Ray Ryder Jr., a poem that speaks to resilience in the face of adversity. Her reading, filled with personal history and hope, provided a moment of reflection on the strength of the human spirit in overcoming tragedy.

Holocaust survivor Renée Silver recites "The Oak Tree," offering a message of resilience and hope amid adversity.
hairman Alan Mindel invited Holocaust survivors in attendance to be the first to view the memorial stone and plaque following the ceremony.

HMTC Chair Alan Mindel closed the event with powerful words of resolve, reminding attendees of the ongoing need to confront evil and asserting that Israel will continue to stand strong against those who seek its destruction. The event concluded with a moment of silence, a final tribute to the victims.

Officials from across Long Island gathered to honor the victims and show solidarity. Elected officials in attendance included Congressman Tom Suozzi, State Assemblymember Charles Lavine, State Assemblymember Gina Sillitti, Nassau County Comptroller Elaine Phillips, North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena, County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, Glen Cove Mayor Pam Panzenbeck, and Glen Cove Councilmember Marsha Silverman. Also in attendance were Glen Cove Deputy Mayor Donna McNaughton, members from the law enforcement community, clergy, and other community leaders.
Attendees reflect as they view the memorial stone and plaque, honoring the lives lost on October 7th.

The commemoration was a collaborative effort by HMTC staff, volunteers, board members, and the broader community. It served as both a memorial and a call to action, ensuring that the lives lost are not forgotten and that the fight against hatred continues.

For more on the HMTC visit www.hmtcli.org

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