University of Maryland students took to McKeldin Mall yesterday to mark two years since Hamas’ attacks on Israel.
Two events simultaneously occurred on McKeldin Mall, with the upper half being an event showing support for Israel and the lower half showing support for Palestine. Focuses varied from remembering the hostages still in captivity in Gaza and mourning the Gazan lives lost since the war began.
Both Maryland police and Contemporary Services Cooperation (CSC) event staff monitored both events and maintained a presence on the perimeter. CSC declined to comment on their expectations for the events ahead of the start times.
On the Israel side, posters told stories of those who lost their lives on Oct. 7th, a table with empty chairs to remember those still in captivity, a sukkah for Sukkot and a table with additional stories.
The Israel event remained small because of Sukkot. Organizers knew many possible attendees would be at home to celebrate the holiday.
On the Palestine side, poster messages supported a free Palestine, along with kites and flowers, parts of Muslim culture.
Mia Mikowski, a junior, attended the event for Israel and viewed the community similarly to a support group.
“October 7th was a very difficult day for me two years ago, and I felt like I had support from the Jewish community. Now two years later, I have the opportunity to step up and give that support to other people,” Mikowski said.
Aseel Ahmed, a sophomore, went to the Palestine event and also emphasized the importance of communal discussions.
“It’s really important to have a sense of community with events that are so tragic. I think that it’s really hard for people to come together and honor the lives that were lost and open up a dialogue about the events, understanding the context behind it,” Ahmed said.
Graduate student Daniel Huber also spent time at the Israel event. The grad student viewed the day’s schedule as an important sign of unity, even through collective grief.
“We’re coming together so we know we’re not alone. It’s a critical thing. It’s kind of impossible to comprehend this tragedy, but when you’re with your Jewish brothers and sisters, it’s a little bit easier,” Huber said.
