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This October 7 memorial will be a beacon of hope

The parents of Jake Marlowe explain their vision for a lasting memorial to all the victims of the Hamas massacre

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RE'EIM ISRAEL, ISRAEL - AUGUST 7: Photos of people killed on Oct 7 deadly attack on the 'Nova Festival' hang at a memorial site on August 7, 2024 in Redeem, Israel. Ten months has passed since the Oct. 7th Hamas-led attack on southern Israel, which sparked a devastating war in Gaza that threatens to spill into the wider region. (Photo by Amir Levy/Getty Images)

August 28, 2024 10:07

October 7, 2023, Southern Israel, 6:29AM

A day that changed the world.

Our names are Lisa and Michael Marlowe.

We are the parents of Jake Marlowe, who was murdered at the Nova Peace Festival

It is our deep conviction that the establishment of a permanent memorial for ALL those murdered on that heinous day is not only a necessity, but an imperative for our community.

This dark day in our history has left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.

It is our responsibility to ensure that the memory of all those that were needlessly slaughtered is honoured in a matter befitting the huge shock and loss we have collectively experienced.

While we have a powerful concept for this memorial, what we are still in need of is a location that will allow it to serve as a lasting reminder for generations to come.

The proposed memorial would be a metal structure, forged from materials with deep connections to the events of that tragic day –metal from the Nova Site, the kibbutzim, the IDF, Magen David Adom, the police, and the Car Graveyard.

This material would be shaped and designed by an Israeli sculptor, ensuring that the monument is not just a physical structure but a symbol of resilience, unity, and remembrance.

The significance of using these materials cannot be overstated.

They embody the very essence of that day from hell and the efforts to respond, rescue, and rebuild.

Incorporating them into the memorial would create a poignant and meaningful tribute, reflecting the diverse facets of our society that were impacted by this atrocity.

What we seek now is a location that resonates with the importance of this memorial – a place where people can come to reflect, to remember, and to find solace.

The site must be accessible to all, serving as a communal space for remembrance and education. It should be a place that not only honours the memory of those murdered but also stands as a testament to our collective strength and determination to move forward, as we have always done as a religion.

We urge our community leaders and officials and indeed our community to prioritise the identification and dedication of such a location.

This memorial will be more than just a structure; it will be a beacon of hope, a reminder of our shared humanity, and a symbol of our unwavering commitment to remember and honour those who were murdered that day.

Let us work together to ensure that this memorial finds a home, where it can serve its purpose for generations to come.

August 28, 2024 10:07

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