AHA Foundation commemorates the first anniversary of the October 7 Massacre

On this day, we solemnly remember the tragic events of October 7, 2023. One year ago, innocent lives were shattered as Hamas launched a brutal attack on Israel, now known as the October 7 Massacre. 

Please watch a message from our founder, Ayaan Hirsi Ali, for those who have suffered as a result of Hamas’ terror and Jewish people everywhere. 

Hamas terrorists brutally murdered 1,200 people, committed horrific sexual violence and other atrocities, and took more than 250 people, from babies to elderly holocaust survivors, hostage.

Today, we commemorate the lives lost on October 7 and in the year since. We remember those languishing in captivity and the unbelievable anguish of their loved ones, the victims who survived unimaginable horrors and the grave existential crisis facing Israel. 

We stand in unwavering solidarity with the people of Israel and demand the return of the hostages.

Over the past year, we have witnessed a surge in antisemitism in America, the likes of which have not been seen since World War Two. Hateful chants like “from the river to the sea,” calling for the destruction of Israel and its people started immediately after the attack, even before Israel took any defensive measures. Acts of hatred and intolerance followed, spreading across campuses and social media, showing the extent of the indoctrination among our young people.

Throughout all of this, the silence and lack of condemnation led to a blood-chilling realization for Jewish communities everywhere: Antisemitism remains deeply rooted in our society and so-called allies could not be relied upon.

Today, as we remember the events of the past year, we are reminded of the solemn promise we made decades ago— ‘Never Again.’ But promises are not enough. Never again requires action. Never Again requires combatting old forms of antisemitism and new. To not do so is to betray the very values of justice, equality, and humanity we hold dear.

Let’s ensure that our Jewish friends, neighbors, and colleagues know they are not alone – with our words and actions. When they attack the Jewish community, they attack all of us.