On November 14th, a significant rally, the 'March for Israel', is set to take place on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The event is organized by the Jewish Federations of North America in collaboration with other Jewish organizations, in response to the October 7th attack by Hamas, which resulted in the death of more than 1,200 Israelis. The rally aims to show solidarity with Israel, combat rising antisemitism, and demand the release of hostages abducted by Hamas.
The event is expected to draw a large crowd, with more than 60,000 people anticipated to attend according to numbers from a public gathering permit. Attendees are advised to arrive early due to expected traffic and use public transit. To manage the crowd and traffic, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has announced that the National Guard will be brought in.
The rally will feature a diverse group of speakers, including educators, artists, students, relatives of hostages seized by Hamas, the president of Israel, Isaac Herzog, U.S. lawmakers, and Israeli Ambassador to the United States Michael Herzog. Most U.S. lawmakers have rejected calls for a cease-fire, maintaining that Israel's military campaign is justified by the need to eradicate Hamas.
The Anti-Defamation League reports that anti-semitic incidents have increased by 316 % since the October 7 Hamas attack. The rally is seen as a significant response to these incidents and the challenges faced by Israel and the Jewish community. Kosher food options will be available in the DC area, including a food truck from Chickies and special deliveries from Holy Chow.
The rally comes amid a deepening war in Gaza, following Israel's declaration of war on Hamas, which has led to the death of thousands of Palestinian civilians. The event is seen as a significant response to these incidents and the challenges faced by Israel and the Jewish community.