Penn State holds vigil to mourn victims in deadly Hamas attack

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – Penn State University held a vigil ceremony on Oct. 10 to show respect and support for Israel and those who were affected by the heinous acts committed by the terrorist group, Hamas.

Hamas, who has been in control of the Gaza Strip for 16 years, planned a surprise attack against Israel by land, air and sea just before dawn on Oct. 7. During their invasion, Hamas soldiers killed hundreds of Jewish citizens as well as injuring thousands more.

In addition, they captured many women and young children which they used as “human shields” for their protection against an Israeli counterattack.

Hundreds of people gathered in front of Old Main to come together through the hard times the Jewish community has faced.

“Your presence here is just so beautiful,” Ezra Nanes said, Mayor of State College Borough.

Nanes mentions these attacks have caused universal damage. They aren't just hurting Israel itself, but they also cause suffering in Gaza as well as State College, too.

“I want to acknowledge the emotion that we have; the pain, the anguish, the anger, the sadness and the sense of shock,” he said. “We mourn this terrible loss of life.”

But this act of terrorism is not stopping the Jewish community from showing their religion loud and proud.

“This shows everyone here [at the vigil] that the Jewish community is strong and united,” President of Lions for Israel, Benjamin Himmel said. “We don’t need to be afraid because we’re together.”

Himmel adds that seeing and hearing about this outside support really increases the morale of soldiers and citizens back in Israel.

“They really appreciate hearing from us knowing that they’re not alone,” he said. “We know that we are going to come back strong.”

In order to show support, they have created Charity for Israel. People can donate money to help fund and support many of the areas currently in need.

For anyone who would like to support the cause, this link will redirect you to the different charities that can be donated to in order to help the Jewish community. (https://linktr.ee/psuisrael?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=bb3b8980-fa92-4d95-9eda-02f66de597f3).

Carlin Whalen is a third-year student majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, please email cjw6426@psu.edu.