This Passover, activist and actress Noa Tishby highlighted the poignant meaning of the Jewish holiday, which celebrates the liberation of the Jewish people from oppression in Egypt thousands of years ago. She emphasized the importance of remembering the suffering and redemption of the Jewish ancestors through the annual Seder meal. However, with dozens of hostages held captive in Gaza, this year’s Passover celebration has a different tone, with many hearts focused on the plight of the victims being violated and tortured daily in the terror tunnels beneath Gaza.
In the midst of the current situation in the Middle East, Tishby urged for uncomfortable conversations about the ongoing atrocities being committed against the hostages. Drawing parallels to the story of Moses, the Passover hero who begged God not to choose him due to his speech impediment, Tishby emphasized the responsibility she feels as a proud Jewish woman to raise awareness about the suffering of the hostages. According to reports from the United Nations and released hostages, those still being held captive are facing daily rape and abuse, adding to the urgency of the situation.
Tishby called on individuals to take action and demand freedom for the hostages, comparing the current situation to Moses going to Pharaoh to demand freedom for the Jewish people in Egypt. She encouraged people to engage with their elected officials and advocate for the release of the hostages, echoing the iconic words of Moses, “Let my people go,” in the face of injustice. This Passover, she emphasized the importance of not resting or turning a blind eye to the suffering of friends and family who remain in virtual slavery in Gaza.
As a former Special Envoy for Combating Antisemitism, Tishby highlighted the historical significance of Passover as a holiday of Jewish national liberation. She shared insights from the Book of Exodus, which details the oppression of the Hebrew ancestors by the pharaohs of Egypt and their eventual liberation through the leadership of Moses. Despite the bittersweet tone of this year’s celebration, Tishby emphasized the importance of honoring the traditions of Passover and the resilience of the Jewish people in the face of adversity.
Amid the echoes of antisemitism in today’s society, stories of Holocaust survivors and ongoing persecution serve as a stark reminder of the struggles faced by the Jewish community. Through conversations about difficult topics and the advocacy for justice and freedom, individuals can work towards creating a world where all people are treated with dignity and respect. Tishby’s call to action resonates with the message of Passover, urging people to stand up against injustice and oppression in all its forms.
