October 7, 2024 marks the one-year anniversary since our home state of Israel was ravaged by Hamas terrorists, seeking the destruction of all Jews. Despite this horrific event, a positive emergence has risen from the rubble. The Jewish people as a whole grew more unified, especially in schools such as our own. Singing in the High School Circle and being educated by our teachers brought us together under one common cause.

Now, it has officially been one full year since this tragic event took place in Israel. The sinister actions committed by Hamas will never be forgotten, and their attempts to overthrow the State of Israel will not be successful.

Despite not being on the battlefield, we Floridian Jews still have the obligation to support our troops from afar. It is our job to motivate our soldiers, to boost the spirits of those who are in need, and to keep our Jewish culture alive.

Though a year has passed, 101 hostages remain captive in Gaza. We commemorate this very day to those individuals, those who have fallen during or following Oct. 7, and those who are still processing their trauma. Judaism must live on. Am Yisrael Chai!