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On October 7, 2023, the Jewish world stopped.
Our hearts broke and the grief was overwhelming. Yet, as we have done throughout history, we transformed anguish into action.



A yellow Hostage Ribbon

For 843 days, we wore yellow ribbons and tags as symbols of remembrance and solidarity with the hostages and their families, while awaiting their safe return and reunion.



When the wait was finally over, UJA invited members of the community to donate these symbols to become part of two commemorative artworks.


Together, they honour the hostages and reflect the resilience, unity, and courage that carried our community through profound pain.


A special thank you to Adam Hummel for bringing the community together around this beautiful and meaningful concept.



PAINTING

Painting rendering

The first artwork depicts a Tree of Life, with hostage tags and ribbons linking the communities of Canada and Israel and reflecting both the sorrow we have carried and the hope that lies ahead. Embedded directly into the artwork, these donated symbols form the branches of the tree, transforming individual expressions of support into a unified visual structure. Grounded by strong roots, the work reflects the enduring bonds and collective strength that continue to sustain our community.


SCULPTURE

Art installation rendering

The second is a sculpture to be unveiled at the 2026 JCC Maccabi Games® & Access, drawing on Jewish symbolism and featuring a torch housed within a three-dimensional Star of David, supported by an octagonal structure. The number eight represents the day after October 7th, the beginning of a new reality, while the torch serves as a reminder that even in moments of darkness, our community finds the light. After the Games, the flame will be refitted as a permanent light, allowing the sculpture to be experienced long after its unveiling.




Read more about the artists.


This project is a living legacy created by the community, for the community.


$144

Raised


$100,000

Goal


0.14%

of goal reached

Whether you donated a ribbon or tag, or are learning about this project for the first time, you can still be part of this lasting tribute. Consider making a gift of $18 to help bring these community memorials to life and preserve their message for future generations.


Follow our fundraising progress on the tracker and help us reach our goal. Every donation moves us one step closer to ensuring these memorials continue to educate, inspire, and honor the stories they represent.



A inverted yellow ribbon




THE ARTISTS

This project would not have been possible without the artists who helped bring this community project to life.



Jessica Gorlicky

Jessica Gorlicky is a Toronto-based artist, live painter, and founder of Jessgo Gallery. For more than 20 years, she has created original artworks, public installations, and large-scale live painting performances across North America. Her career includes performing across Canada, including during the 2010 Winter Olympics torch relay for RBC, touring with Cirque du Soleil’s Totem, and exhibiting work through galleries, public events, corporate commissions, and charitable initiatives. Through her creative practice, she has helped raise more than $500,000 for community and non-profit organizations.



Jeffrey Kahane

Jeffrey Kahane is a multidisciplinary experiential artist, creative strategist, and brand designer whose work explores the intersection of art, storytelling, and human connection. For more than 30 years, he has worked with leading brands, cultural institutions, non-profit organizations, and community initiatives. His work transforms ideas into meaningful experiences that bring people together and leave a lasting emotional impact. His portfolio includes contributions to internationally recognized projects and events, including the 2010 Vancouver Olympic games, Pan Am Games, NBA All-Star Game, Pride Toronto, Nuit Blanche, and Calgary Stampede. Most recently, Jeffrey is working as the creative lead for the closing celebration of the 2026 JCC Maccabi Games® & Access.



Tax receipts will be issued for donations of $18 and above. The tax receipt for this donation will be sent to the email address you provide. The address you used in your contact details must match your credit card’s billing address. The Canada Revenue Agency requires that donation receipts bear the name and address of the actual donor. If you make a donation you will automatically be subscribed to our mailing list and will receive periodic updates and communications from UJA Federation of Greater Toronto, United Jewish Appeal of Greater Toronto, and The Jewish Foundation of Greater Toronto.


If you have any questions, please reach out to our donor services team at 416-631-5705 or [email protected].


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