Profound Display of Unity: GOA Reflects on March For Israel

By Abby Hodes ‘25 
On October 14th, Golda Och Academy actively participated in what is believed to be the largest pro-Israel gatherings in Washington, DC. 

​

The profound impact of the march was felt deeply by students, faculty members, and parents, many of whom describe it as a life-changing, historic experience. 
GOA Upper School Principal Dr. Apter said, “Ahavat Yisrael/Love of Israel is a core value of the school. Throughout the year, we strive to design lessons and provide experiences to give students the opportunity to learn and show their love of Israel, but it is rare that we get to show our love of Israel publicly with hundreds of thousands of people from across the nation. I was so proud that our GOA community stood up to make our voices heard.” 
The rally, which drew participants from all walks of life, featured a spectrum of speakers, ranging from politicians to parents whose kids are held hostage. The bravery of these parents in sharing their experiences among thousands, added to the rally’s powerful atmosphere and helped instill a sense of empowerment within the crowd. 
Math teacher Mrs. Antiles describes her experience at the gathering as, “beautiful and peaceful.” She noted that the crowd “cut across all levels of religious observance and political affiliation.” “We stood together, united as a people, as a family,” she added. 
Sophomore Marley Fischer describes her newfound perspective, “Before going to the rally, I really didn't know what to expect but I did know that it was not something I wanted to miss. Looking back, it was so empowering to see hundreds of thousands of Jews stand up together as one community. The experience really changed my view on how much of an impact a group can make and how important it is to stand for what you believe.”
“At the rally, I saw so many friends from all different stages of my life which was such a beautiful thing because it reminded me that we all have an underlying love for Israel that will forever connect us,” she said.  
“I felt united with our Jewish community as it is really special that everyone can unite together for the same purpose despite having various political beliefs,” said Batsheva Hodes, a parent chaperone for the march. “I never felt more proud to be an Israeli-American Jew than while at the march.”
Junior Jesse Schiffman encapsulated the sentiments of the day, saying, “To be at the rally meant to be a small but significant part of a 300,000 piece puzzle that showed the nation and the world that the Jewish people are strong and will overcome any obstacle together. It meant representing the hostages trapped in Gaza and the brave soldiers fighting who needed support. It was amazing to see what a huge impact we Jews and our allies could make, and the fact that it was safe and peaceful makes it that much better.”
    Since the attack on October 7th, some have reported feeling a sense of helplessness and despair. The experience at the March for Israel helped counteract this feeling. This march was a 
defining moment for Jews in America, illustrating that even when physically distant from Israel, American Jews can stand together and be there spiritually. 
    Mrs. Antiles, who is the proud mother of an IDF soldier, expressed how impactful the rally was for her, considering her specific connection to the war.
“I felt tremendous comfort and strength, seeing with my own eyes this powerful demonstration of support and solidarity for our Jewish homeland. I know our soldiers are energized by the outpouring of love and support that the American Jewish people are giving them right now,” she said.
“We are all one people and when we stand together, we are strong and unstoppable, so this gives me tremendous hope -- our future is bright” she added.





​