Two years ago, the world changed. The tragedy of October 7th and the genocide that has transpired since then has led to the loss of thousands of lives. 

I mourn for every life lost, every person kidnapped, and every family grieving and those still waiting for answers. I hold close the grief of my Israeli and Palestinian constituents, and all those who carry pain and fear from that day and all days from this long conflict. 

What’s clear is this: our grief must never be used to justify more suffering. Instead we must turn to our community. That’s why I was proud to stand with Rabbis for a Ceasefire and call for an immediate and permanent end to this war. We must continue to work together to end cycles of retaliation and dehumanization and instead uplift our shared humanity and build communities dedicated to peace. 

I continue to call for the safe return of all hostages, an end to the bombings and blockades in Gaza, and a future rooted in justice, safety, and dignity for all people in the region. 

On this day of remembrance, let us recommit to peace and to recognizing our shared humanity.