Oct. 7, 2024 marking one year since the Israel invasion. Utah Capital Bulding steps, where a Community gathering was held. Photo: TownLift // Michele Roepke

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — On Monday, Oct. 7, a few hundred people gathered on the steps of Utah’s Capitol to mark one year since the invasion of Israel by Hamas.

The national consultant representative to Park City’s safety and security joined Utah Highway Patrol officers, who handed out stickers to children, fostering a sense of community among attendees.

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Summit County’s U.S. Rep. Blake Moore read a statement saying, “Even here in Utah, we declare that the true intentions of the authoritarian regime in Iran are to destroy the State of Israel and sow chaos in the region through an extensive proxy network. We continue our efforts to promote strong American leadership that rejects antisemitism at home and abroad and accommodation efforts with Iran and supports the defense and security of the State of Israel.” The statement was signed by Reps. Burgess Owens, John Curtis, Celeste Maloy, Moore, and Sens. Mitt Romney and Mike Lee.

Rabbi Jonathan Hecht of Park City’s Temple Har Shalom said, “Last year, our dancing was brutally disrupted, and the dancing at the Nova festival was violently interrupted, but we will dance again. No one can stop the dancing of the Jewish people. Amen.”

Oct. 7, 2024. Rabbi from Park City. — Rabbi Hecht from Park City, Oct. 7, 2024. Photo: TownLift // Michele Roepke

Alex Shapiro, executive director of the Utah Jewish Federation, spoke about recent events: “Oct. 7, 2023, marked the worst tragedy for the State of Israel and the Jewish people since the Holocaust—1,200 were murdered, and approximately 250 were taken hostage, of which 101 are still held captive in Gaza, including four Americans.” The community, he said, prays for the hostages’ return and remembers those lost. “We honor their memory and stand in solidarity with their families, offering our deepest condolences and unwavering support.”

Shapiro’s concern extended beyond his immediate community. “We also mourn the needless loss of lives in Gaza and Lebanon and the suffering of civilians in harm’s way. Our compassion extends to all who are affected by this conflict.”

Turning to local issues, Shapiro pointed out the challenges faced by the Jewish community in the United States and Utah over the past year. “The past year has created significant challenges for the Jewish community across the United States, and here in Utah, we’ve faced a rise in antisemitism permeating all aspects of our lives.” He added, “Many in our communities have experienced the profound loneliness of losing lifelong friendships, facing workplace hostility, and feeling unsupported.”

These experiences, Shapiro noted, serve as “a harsh reminder of the prejudices that persist in our society and the lengths some will go to divide and intimidate. These actions tear at the fabric of our community and our values of acceptance, respect, and human dignity.”

Yet, amid these difficulties, Shapiro highlighted the community’s strength: “Make no mistake, though—Utah’s Jewish community is vibrant and strong. Despite difficulties, we continue to come together, support one another, and stand firm in our identity and values.” He concluded by describing the community as “more than just a group of individuals; we are a family bound by shared history, traditions, and a commitment to making the world a better place.”