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Haaretz Podcast

'People say my son brought Oct. 7 on himself – as if he invited terrorists into his home'

Oct 6, 2024
Hannah Wacholder-Katzman, mother of peace activist Chaim Katzman who was killed by Hamas, shares her poignant journey of grief and advocacy. She recounts the challenges of mourning amid national trauma and reflects on how hostility from some segments complicates her advocacy for hostage families. Despite feeling more supported by the U.S. government than Israel's, she emphasizes the need for unity and understanding, while highlighting the politicization of grief in her son's memory and the frustrations of activists during such dark times.
23:04

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Hannah Wacholder Katsman highlights the emotional turmoil of navigating personal grief amidst the ongoing conflict and lack of local support.
  • Chaim Katzman's legacy as a peace advocate and political scientist is emphasized, showcasing his commitment to social justice and community engagement.

Deep dives

Personal Grief Amid National Commemoration

Marking the anniversary of October 7th brings a profound sense of personal loss intertwined with national mourning for many families affected by the tragedy. As Hannah Wacholder-Katzman shares her experience, the ongoing conflict significantly complicates her ability to focus solely on the memory of her son, Chaim Katzman, who was killed during the Hamas attack. She reflects on the buildup to this anniversary, noting that while numerous events and memorials are planned to honor Chaim, the intensity of the surrounding violence adds a layer of emotional turmoil. The commonplace expectation of a day of remembrance is overshadowed by the realities of war, making the navigation of grief more challenging for those like Hannah who are mourning their loved ones in a time of continued strife.

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