Artum Zahavi, an Israeli soldier, participated in the New York City Marathon to support the Israeli hostages still being held captive after Hamas’ attack on Israel in October 2023. Zahavi, along with 149 other runners, was part of a group organized by Bring Them Home Now, a volunteer organization dedicated to bringing back the remaining hostages. While Zahavi couldn’t speak to the media as a member of the Israel Defense Force, he expressed his emotions after crossing the finish line by exclaiming, “Bring them home, friends!” This sentiment was echoed by the crowd, chanting in Hebrew after him.
The marathon group was organized in remembrance of five hostages who were passionate runners: Naama Levy, Doron Steinbacher, Evyatar David, Ohad Yahalomi, and Edan Alexander. Alexander’s family, who resides in New Jersey, took part in the rally to show support and hope for the return of their son. Spectators were given flags and signs to show their support, while runners wore shirts that read “Run for their lives.” Organizer Dana Cwaigrach highlighted the purpose of the group, stressing the importance of raising awareness for the hostages in captivity and showing solidarity through their participation in the marathon.
Supporters of the group emphasized the significance of citizens actively coming out to show their support for the hostages. One supporter named Sarah emphasized that many of the hostages were individuals who shared common interests and hobbies with ordinary citizens. She stressed the importance of understanding that these were civilians who were kidnapped for no reason, despite any existing political tensions between countries. As an Upper West Sider, Sarah urged for a sense of empathy and acknowledgment of the human aspect behind the tragic situation of the hostages.
The enthusiastic support from the crowd, which joined in chanting “Bring them home!” in Hebrew, demonstrated the impact of the group’s message during the marathon event. The overall goal of the initiative was to bring attention to the plight of the hostages and call for their safe return home. By creating a sense of community and shared purpose among the runners and spectators, the rally aimed to emphasize the humanity of the hostages and the importance of international support in securing their release. The emotional statements from Zahavi and the participants reflected the compassion and solidarity driving the group’s efforts to raise awareness for the hostages’ cause.
The unity and camaraderie displayed during the marathon event underscored the importance of global solidarity in addressing humanitarian crises and advocating for justice. Through their participation and support, the runners and spectators sought to shed light on the plight of the hostages and send a powerful message of hope and solidarity. The voices raised in support of the hostages resonated across cultures and borders, emphasizing the shared humanity that transcends political differences. By coming together in a spirit of compassion and empathy, the participants in the marathon event exemplified the strength of collective action and the enduring power of hope in challenging times.
As the event concluded, the significance of the rally and the impact of the participants’ actions reverberated beyond the confines of the marathon course. The support shown for the hostages and their families served as a poignant reminder of the resilience and compassion within communities facing adversity. Through their collective efforts and determination, the group of runners and supporters reaffirmed their commitment to standing in solidarity with those in need and working towards a brighter future. The marathon event was not just a physical test of endurance but a symbolic gesture of unity and support for individuals affected by conflict and crisis, highlighting the enduring importance of compassion and advocacy in fostering positive change.
