On September 24, 2024, the Eretz Cultural Center held a moving event, “October 7th… One Year Later: A Night of Reflection and Unity,” commemorating the resilience of the Jewish community and fostering hope for a brighter future.
The evening began with virtual appearances from honorees Rabbi Abraham Cooper and Eden Golan. Rabbi Cooper, representing the Simon Wiesenthal Center, reflected on decades of leadership in combating antisemitism and promoting tolerance worldwide. Eden Golan, an Israeli Eurovision finalist, shared an inspiring message of how music can break barriers and unite people across divides.
A highlight of the event was the engaging 30-minute panel discussion featuring Emmy-winning journalist Stella Escobedo and human rights advocate Emily Schrader, moderated by Eden Burkow. Escobedo shared insights from her career at One America News Network, focusing on the media’s role in amplifying underrepresented voices. Schrader, a prominent writer and activist, discussed her efforts to combat antisemitism and promote human rights through her platform Social Lite Creative.
Lisa Daftari, founder of The Foreign Desk and a seasoned investigative journalist, delivered the final speech. Her words inspired the audience, emphasizing the importance of unity and resilience amid challenges.
The event was made possible thanks to the generous support of Dr. Kevin Coppelson, a board-certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon based in Los Angeles and Westlake Village. Dr. Coppelson provides free surgical care to survivors of the Nova music festival attack, demonstrating his commitment to community service. His practice specializes in advanced techniques for facial skeletal augmentation, addressing maxillofacial deformities and sleep-related breathing disorders.
The night concluded with a heartfelt musical performance by Carine Basili, who sang “October Rain” in Arabic alongside an Israeli singer, symbolizing unity and shared humanity.
