JFNNJ hosting art exhibit
The Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey, with the support of the Lasher Family Nahariya Partnership, showcases “Heroines of October 7.” It’s the first United States display of the internationally recognized exhibition honoring the extraordinary women whose courage and sacrifice have shaped Israel’s history and its future. The exhibit is on open display through May 28 at JFNNJ offices
The exhibition originally began as a tribute to the women who helped build the State of Israel. The exhibit began in August 2023 when researcher and producer Avi Huber and curator Yael Nitzan started planning a showcase at Beit Hannah Senesh honoring Israel’s founding heroines. After the Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023, the exhibition evolved to include a new generation of women whose bravery emerged during one of the darkest days in Israel’s history.
Presented by the Museum of Women’s Heroism and Women’s Heritage in Israel, the exhibit features 50 portraits created in wood, iron, paint, and assemblage by dozens of artists. Together, the works honor women who shaped Israel’s past and defend its future.
As part of the exhibition, the federation welcomed family members of two fallen heroines whose stories have become enduring symbols of courage and sacrifice.
The federation hosted Eyal Eshel, the father of Roni Eshel z”l, a 19-year-old IDF surveillance soldier killed at the Nahal Oz base during the October 7 Hamas attack. Before her death, Ms. Eshel repeatedly warned commanders about unusual activity along the Gaza border, believing it signaled a serious threat. For 34 days, her family believed she might still be alive in Gaza before the army confirmed her death. Since then, Mr. Eshel has become a leading voice among bereaved families seeking accountability while preserving the memory of the young soldiers whose warnings went unheeded. He wrote the book “Abba Ba” (“Dad is Coming”) to tell Roni’s story and document the failures he believes contributed to the tragedy.
JFNNJ also hosted Zehava Ben Simon, the mother of Lieutenant Adar Ben Simon z”l, who was killed on October 7 while leading soldiers and fighting terrorists at Zikim Base. Lt. Simon helped save about 120 recruits and prevented the base from being captured. Through her advocacy, Ms. Ben Simon honors not only her daughter but the many female soldiers who have fallen defending Israel, emphasizing that courage, leadership, and sacrifice transcend gender. Using the phoenix as a symbol of resilience, she calls on society to rise from grief with gratitude and purpose, ensuring these young women continue to inspire future generations.
“Heroines of October 7 is both a memorial and a celebration of extraordinary bravery,” JFNNJ’s CEO, Jason M. Shames, said. “These women represent the strength, resilience, and spirit of Israel. We are honored to bring this powerful exhibition to our community and to welcome the families whose stories remind us of the human courage behind history.” For information, email Laura Freeman at lauraf@jfnnj.orgor call (201) 264-3857.
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