Jewish Caucus Remembers Lives Lost One Year After the October 7th Terrorist Attacks

COLUMBUS - The Ohio Jewish Caucus today released the following statement marking the one-year anniversary of the October 7th, 2023 terrorist attacks on Israel:

"It has been one year since the massacres of Oct. 7, and today we are remembering and mourning the more than 1,200 innocent lives that were taken on the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust. We will also never stop working for the safe return of the hostages to their families. They belong at home.

The October 7th attacks by Hamas terrorists changed everything, and have sparked a devastating year of violence. Tragedy has built upon tragedy. We are praying for an end not only to the wars that are raging, but to the cycles of violence that have plagued those communities for centuries. Israelis, Palestinians, and Lebanese. Jews, Muslims. Children and the Elderly. Everyone deserves to live in peace.

In the wake of the attacks, we stood on the floor of the Ohio House of Representatives to express our commitment to a strong and secure Jewish state in Israel. We remain steadfast, and have been immensely grateful for the unwavering dedication and friendship of our colleagues in the days since.

In Jewish tradition we rip a piece of clothing following the death of a loved one. Collectively, Jews the world over have spent the last year wearing that tear on our heart. The pain and grief that have filled the gash have been immeasurable. As the only Jewish elected leaders in Ohio's state government, we are proud to stand in solidarity and compassion with other Jews around the country, in Israel, and around the world.

Our hearts remain broken, but our spirits are unwavering. Today is a day to mourn. It is also a day to rededicate ourselves to a more peaceful future."