In remembrance of Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023 attacks on Israel, UVM Hillel hosted various programs to allow students a space to grieve and learn. 

The events included a memorial table outside of the Davis Center where students could decorate kites, a chair display featuring photos of remaining hostages and an evening vigil at the Hillel building.

“People just wanted a space to be and reflect in a way that wasn’t just ‘I’m thinking about today and it’s October 7,’ but something tangible to help process that,” said Hillel Director Matt Vogel.

The vigil took place at 7 p.m., where Vogel, Jewish Vermonters, Hillel members and others shared prayers in Hebrew and English to mourn the victims and pray for peace. 

The program for the vigil was made by student members of Hillel, Vogel said. 

“Our strength as Jews comes from gathering together in mourning and in joy to affirm life, community and hope. Even in times of heartbreak, we must choose connection over despair, unity over division,” said Beth Liberman, executive director of Jewish Communities of Vermont, at the vigil. 

Hillel members also shared the story of Ohad Cohen, an Israeli soldier killed on Oct. 7, and wore stickers that displayed red poppies, a sign of peace. 

Behind them, wooden wings made by an Israeli artist were displayed as a symbol of the children lost in the attack. 

“Two years ago yesterday, there was peace, and today we’re mourning,” Vogel said at the conclusion of the vigil. “I’d like you all to think about what you can do to act tomorrow, to make the world better, Tikkun Olam, to bring that light back to the room, because we all desperately need it.”