DES MOINES, Iowa — October 7th is a day that will never be forgotten, and today was a day of remembrance and encouragement.
Encouragement to keep going, while also reflecting on the struggles of the past year.
On October 7, 2023, Hamas attacked Israel, killing over 1,200 people and taking hundreds more hostage.
People of Israel and Jewish communities gathered at the Iowa State Capitol Monday to stand in solidarity.
"This is a very emotional day," said Jarad Bernstein, Executive Director of the Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines. "We have family members; we have friends and colleagues in Israel."
While the day was about remembrance and solidarity, it was also a call to action. Many called on people to keep paying attention to the reality of the situation.
"The number one thing that we need to see is the return home of the hostages," Bernstein said.
Palestinian supporters are also reflecting. Rob Packnett, an Iowan who has stood in solidarity of Palestinians the past year, says he has seen a positive growth around awareness of what is going on.
A common ground between both sides is that work still needs to be done.
"We've seen a year of what we're doing has not been enough to persuade the people in charge to change course," Packnett said. "So, yeah, the movement still needs to grow."
It's a moment impacting the entire country. Leo Dassa is from Israel, but now lives in Boston, Massachusetts and is visiting Iowa for work.
He says Monday was an emotional day, and when he went to tour the Iowa State Capitol, he stumbled upon the moment of solidarity.
"I think just over the last year, it's really been tearing me apart in terms of, how much can I represent my Judaism, how much can I wear my pride," Dassa said.
Dassa says he has a strong Jewish community in Boston, but being part of this moment was a feeling of comfort and made it feel like home.
"I just feel like the people around me get it, and I think when you're around people who get it and who are using their brains, you feel at ease," Dassa said.
Ultimately, October 7 is a day that will be engraved into lives forever.
"Still haven't recovered since that day," Bernstein said. "For me, for many Israelis, it still feels like October 7 of 2023... not 2024."
Governor Kim Reynolds, U.S. Representative Zach Nunn, Attorney General Brenna Bird and Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate were also in attendance at the moment of solidarity.