The building will close at 3pm on Wednesday, Oct. 1, and remain closed on Thursday, Oct. 2 in observance of Yom Kippur.
Commemorating October 7th
Marking October 7th – in Memory, Strength and Hope
“A person is but the shape of their homeland.” – Shaul Tchernichovsky
Nearly two years have passed since the atrocities of October 7th, yet the memory of that day continues to shape our lives. Northern Virginia Jewish organizations invite you to join diverse programs—offered in different formats—so everyone can find a way to participate that feels meaningful.
It has now been over 700 days since 251 hostages were taken, and 48 still held captive and prevented from returning to their families. We continue to hold them in our hearts and support efforts for their safe return.
We invite the community to listen, learn, share, and connect as we carry the landscapes of our homeland, our communities, and our shared memory. Together, we honor the memory, uplift the stories, and find strength and healing as a community.
Join us in hope and healing at these events:
Sunday, October 5, 2PM, Fairfax
Two Years: Uniting in Grief and Resolve with Run for Their Lives
Join us as we stand together, united, to commemorate October 7th; the day more than 1200 people were murdered and the day more than 251 civilians were taken as hostages.
We will walk together to recognize the plight of the remaining hostages and their families and advocate for their immediate release.
The location of the walk will be announced 48 hours prior the event to those who RSVP.
October 6-16, Temple Rodef Shalom
Wrapping Memory Exhibition: The Beauty of the Gaza Envelope Region Before Oct 7
In collaboration with Temple Rodef Shalom and the Department of Visual Communication at Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design in Jerusalem.
Through a series of visually captivating artworks, this exhibition seeks to honor the memory of the region's rich cultural heritage and landscapes, while also serving as a tribute to the resilience and strength of its people.
The exhibition will be available for viewing from Monday, October 6, at 3:00 PM to Thursday, October 16, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM each day with the exception of Tuesday, October 7, Sunday, October 12, and Tuesday, October 14. Entry is free of charge.
October 9–16, Pozez JCC
Dear Soldier
Write a Letter, Brighten an IDF Soldier’s Day!
This is an opportunity to send a kind word, share a joke, or even include a drawing from children—small gestures that will bring immense joy to the soldiers who receive them. A table will be set up in the lobby throughout the week where anyone passing by can write a letter.
Sunday, October 12, 3PM, Pozez JCC
Women of Valor: Commander Karni’s Journey
Join us for a powerful afternoon with Commander Karni, who led the Israel Defense Forces’ all-female tank crew during the defense of a kibbutz on October 7, 2023. Karni will share her journey to becoming a tank commander, her harrowing experiences that day, and the lessons she has carried forward. This uplifting conversation highlights resilience, leadership, and the strength of Jewish women.
Sunday, October 12, 5PM, Chabad of NoVA
A Survivor's Story
Join Chabad of Northern Virginia for an unforgettable evening with Gal Bukshpan, a survivor of the Nova festival. Hear his powerful story of survival and resilience, how it is still affecting 2 years after October 7th.
Sunday, October 26, 1PM, Pozez JCC
Hands-On for Kibbutz Re'im
Join us for a heartwarming volunteer event to create menorahs and dreidels for the residents of Kibbutz Re'im, Israel. After the events of October 7th, the community is coming together, and your time, creativity, and care can help them feel the warmth and support of the Jewish community in Northern Virginia.
Wednesday, October 29, 6:30pm, Pozez JCC
Survived to Tell: A Virtual Reality Nova Memorial Experience
Using innovative technology, participants will hear firsthand testimonials from survivors of the Nova Music Festival and virtually visit the memorial built at the site in Israel. This powerful program offers a new way to engage with memory and connect to stories of resilience.
Wednesday, October 29, 7:30pm, Pozez JCC
Voices from Re’im: Community, Resilience, and Hope
The Pozez JCC is honored to welcome Zohar Livne Mizrahi, Secretary General of Kibbutz Re’im, for a moving and insightful conversation. Kibbutz Re’im, located near the site of the Nova Music Festival, became a place of unimaginable tragedy on October 7, 2023, and has since become a symbol of resilience, community, and renewal.
