Solidarity With Israel Rally Planned For Sunday In Skokie

SKOKIE, IL — The Chicago-based regional office of the Simon Wisenthal Center is set to host a rally in solidarity with Israel on Sunday in Skokie.

“The past 11 days have been challenging for the global Jewish community," Alison Pure Slovin, Midwest region director of the center, told Skokie Patch. "As we mourn the tragic murder of innocent Israelis, we pray for the safe release of both Israeli and American hostages."

The Oct. 22 event is scheduled to run from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Ateres Ayala, 3412 W. Touhy Ave., a nonprofit kosher event hall.

It is being held in formation with more than a dozen other location organizations, including the ADL, the Jewish United Fund, the Jewish National Fund, Assyrians Against Anti-Semitism Initiative and the Iraqi Christian Relief Council, according to organizers.

"The Simon Wiesenthal Center is uniting communities in Solidarity with Israel to ensure that the lessons of the Holocaust are not forgotten, especially as we witness its horrors being repeated,” Pure Slovin said in an email.

Organizers issued a statement announcing that the center's annual gala, which recognizes people who have gone above and beyond to emulate its mission and goal, has been postponed in light of the ongoing war between Hamas and Israel.

"Today, as we face the devastating impacts of this war, the stark parallels between the anti-Semitism of the 1940s and the rise of hate today are both alarming and heart-wrenching," it said. "The haunting memories of the Holocaust still echo deeply within the hearts of our community. These tragic events have once again reminded us of the fragile nature of peace, but they have also illuminated the unyielding spirit of our community."

Israeli government officials have said at least 199 people, mostly civilians, were abducted during cross-border attacks launched by Hamas on Oct. 7. They reportedly include Evanston residents Judith Tai Raanan and Natalie Raanan, who are believed to be alive and being held captive by terrorists in Gaza.

According to the Associated Press, the 11-day-old conflict has become the deadliest of five Gaza wars. More than 1,400 Israelis have been killed, according to Israeli officials. Gaza Health Ministry officials say 2,778 Palestinians have been killed, with another 1,200 believed to be buried under the rubble and 9,700 others wounded.

"Given the unforeseen circumstances, we've decided to postpone the Spirit of Courage Gala and reorient our focus. As a testament to our unwavering solidarity, we will now be hosting a Solidarity Rally to show our support for Israel," the Simon Weisenthal Center officials said.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and the entire nation during this trying time."