Survivors share traumatic experiences two years after October 7 attacks

In early October 2023, a series of terrorist attacks carried out by Hamas targeted communities in Israel, marking a tragic moment in the history of the country, particularly for the Jewish people. Among the most affected was Kfar Azza, where residents like Liri Sobol witnessed horrific violence. Two years later, on October 1, 2025, Sobol and other survivors are in the Twin Cities, opening an exhibit titled 'Through Their Eyes: The Story of Kfar Azza', which aims to commemorate the traumatic events and share the resilience of the community. The immersive experience invites visitors into the lives of those affected by the attacks, highlighting the lasting impact of the violence and the struggle for healing and remembrance. Sobol recounted the moment she understood the severity of the situation through the sound of gunfire, a stark image that now haunts many survivors. "I take inspiration from the resilience of our community," she said, emphasizing the bond among those who lived through the ordeal. On the educational front, survivors have also engaged with students, like those at Stuyvesant High School in New York City, where Oriya Ness Berlin, a 21-year-old survivor, shared her harrowing account with fellow students. This initiative, spurred by the school's Jewish Student Union, is part of a broader movement to foster understanding and dialogue about the significance of the attacks. Students aim to strengthen Jewish pride and encourage a collective remembrance of those lost during the incident, as well as to build bridges between Jewish and non-Jewish communities. The events of October 7 serve as a powerful reminder of the struggles faced by those who were directly impacted by the violence, the need for communal support, and the importance of education in preserving the memory of tragic events. Both exhibitions and sharing personal narratives play a crucial role in ensuring that the lessons learned from these experiences do not fade with time.