October 7, 2023, marked a turning point in my life, awakening me to my responsibilities tied to my identity as a Jewish man in a world increasingly marred by antisemitism. This has rocked me to my core while also giving me a new purpose — which I am still figuring out.
While I have never felt deeply connected to my religion, the terrorist attack that day compelled me to confront my heritage and to advocate for Israel’s right to exist and for the Jewish people’s right for self-determination in our ancestral homeland, the true definition of being a Zionist.
The attack on Israel’s sovereignty, resulting in the loss of around 1,200 lives and the seizure of hundreds as hostages, some of whom are still held by Hamas, shattered any illusion of distance from my Jewish roots.
There is no perfect government, and like any other country Israel is far from perfect. Benjamin Netanyahu has been accused of fraud, breach of trust, and other crimes. None of this alleged behavior is OK in any way, however, this does not dampen the imperative of defending the Jewish homeland.
My personal encounters with antisemitism as I have advocated over the past few months have only reinforced this commitment. I have some of this on video, including being called things like “Jew nose,” being told “Work Will Set You Free,” as well as “Macht Frei,” which is a reference to the sign that greeted innocent Jews at the Nazi death camp Auschwitz before they were instead gassed to death solely for being Jewish.
I have had to call the police. As I watch what I have recorded, I truly cannot believe what is taking place, the names I am being called, the accusations being made solely because I am Jewish and carrying an Israeli flag, advocating for the Jewish people and the hostages still left in the hands Hamas terrorists in Gaza.
Pro-Palestinian students create placards at an encampment on the campus of the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan on April 28, 2024. The protests against Israel’s war with Hamas began at Columbia University earlier this month before spreading to campuses across the country. They have posed a major challenge to university administrators who are trying to balance campus commitments to free expression with complaints that the rallies have crossed a line. (Photo by JEFF KOWALSKY/AFP via Getty Images)
I am not an apologist for Israel, and when given the chance to engage in conversation I acknowledge Israel’s many faults while still making it clear that I am in full support of Israel’s right to self-determination in the Jewish people’s ancestral homeland.
I explain that I also support Israelis and Palestinians coexisting, which has been offered and negotiated many times – and each time Israel is attacked, war is declared, and Israel successfully defends herself. I feel necessary change will come from the people, not from the governments, hence the reason I stand in Colorado with an Israeli flag, creating conversations that will hopefully bring people together rather than pulling them apart. My goal is to create the conversations that will bring people together and dispel much of the misinformation that has spread like wildfire since October 7.
Being taunted with derogatory remarks and symbols reminiscent of Nazi atrocities merely for displaying an Israeli flag has shaken me to the core but has also made me more determined. Being called ad hominem names containing Jewish tropes, in 2024 in Boulder, Colorado has been a wake-up call, compelling me to wear my Star of David proudly and join forces with like-minded individuals in Colorado with amazing groups like Stop Antisemitism Colorado to combat prejudice and misinformation.
In the aftermath of October 7, I have found solace in newfound camaraderie and purpose, and I am lucky to have made new friends that I have come to care about a great deal. Collaborating, we are lobbying against anti-Israel sentiments in politics, we have successfully challenged ceasefire resolutions across the front range, and we have confronted and are still dealing with illegal encampments, like the one at my son’s school, University of Denver, where I have personally witnessed things that should not be happening. Jewish students have been extremely affected by the encampment.
It is a journey with an uncertain destination, but one defined by unwavering support for Jewish self-determination and a fervent desire for peace in Gaza. Sincerely, I truly want peace – and those who have known me for a long time know that I really and truly mean this.
I do not oppose a ceasefire – there was indeed a ceasefire on October 6. At this point in order for this to happen, Hamas needs to surrender and release the hostages. Hamas cannot be allowed to continue to govern, and they must be dismantled. There is much that must happen, and it needs to be intentionally and carefully done. However, in order for this process to begin the hostages must be released – now.
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Despite the darkness, there have been huge rays of hope. My bond with my grandfather who passed away around 20 years ago and escaped Poland before the Holocaust, feels stronger than ever, and my relationship with my parents has deepened. This has been truly wonderful and is an ongoing journey. Through education and activism, we strive to dispel ignorance, foster understanding, and eradicate antisemitism in all its forms.
While October 7 unleashed a huge tragedy for so many, it also ignited a newfound sense of purpose and community.
Together, we are determined to counter hate, safeguard innocent lives, and build a world where every individual, regardless of their faith or religion, can live free from fear and persecution. I am determined to do my part to set up the world for our kids and their kids, so that all can live as they should – in peace.
Aaron Brooks and his wife moved to Boulder in 2022 to be closer to their family. Aaron has spent over two decades in business development and relationship management in professional services and consulting. He has also written a book called “Sincerity: The Recipe for Living Your Best Personal and Professional Life” about how to create sincere relationships that lead to happiness and success throughout one’s life.
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