In this moment of profound loss and upheaval, the word home takes on deeper meaning than ever. From the complete destruction of entire neighborhoods in Gaza, to the daily attacks and settler violence in the West Bank, to the displacement of tens of thousands of Israelis from border towns left in limbo - so many are now without the safety, dignity, and belonging that home should provide.

For Palestinians, this is a sadly familiar story. Since 1948, generations have been torn from their homes, lands, and communities. The Nakba, or 'the catastrophe', was not a one-time event, but an ongoing process of dispossession that continues to this day. In the West Bank, this reality is playing out once again. In places like the Jenin and Tulkarem refugee camps - communities that were originally formed by those displaced in 1948 - families are now being forced to flee once more under the weight of relentless military incursions, home demolitions, and escalating violence.

For Jewish people too, the story of displacement runs deep - centuries of exile, persecution, and expulsion have shaped a collective memory marked by loss and survival. Both of our histories must be remembered to compel us to recognize injustice wherever it occurs and remind us of our shared responsibility to build a future rooted in equality and freedom. Learning the harsh lessons of the past means refusing to accept dehumanization in any form, and choosing, again and again, the harder path of empathy and action.

The ceremony will include personal testimonies, artistic performances, and reflections from thought leaders in Palestine and Israel. It is a space for remembrance, but also for hope – envisioning a future where all people can live freely and securely in their homes. The ceremony will be livestreamed, and the recording will be shared the day after. If you have any questions or need assistance with the registration, please do contact me directly.

Your presence would mean a great deal in this moment. I hope you will join us.