On Tuesday, tens of thousands gathered on the National Mall in Washington D.C. to express solidarity with Israel in its conflict with Hamas. This event is part of a series of global protests related to the ongoing conflict. The rally, lasting several hours, not only demonstrated support for Israel but also advocated for the release of the 240 hostages in Gaza and called for an end to antisemitism in the United States. Over 100 individuals from the Bay Area’s Jewish community, including Tyler Gregory, CEO of JCRC Bay Area, participated in the rally.

The event brought together diverse segments of the community, fostering unity. Various speakers, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Speaker Mike Johnson, addressed the crowd. Rabbi Mark Bloom of Temple Beth Abraham in Oakland had met with California senators before the event to emphasize the group’s position and seek support for Israel.

The rabbi also said for many, this rally was personal. 

“Israel feels alone and I felt like I needed to be among the group that stands with them,” he said. “In addition, I felt alone as a Jew in the Bay Area with the increase of antisemitism. I felt like I needed to be in the presence of people who understood what we were all going through.”

Families of the hostages were also there, demanding their safe return.