Editor’s Note: On June 1, a terrorist pitched Molotov cocktails at a group of pro-Israel demonstrators advocating release of Israeli hostages from their confinement in Gaza. Mohamed Soliman subsequently was charged in federal court with 12 counts of committing a hate crime.
By Jonathan Lev and David Paul
BOULDER, Colorado — In times of heartbreak and adversity, we are reminded of the deep strength and beauty within our community. Even in moments of darkness, we continue to show up for one another with love, resilience, and strength.
As we continue on the path toward healing, we hold the victims of the June 1st terrorist attack close and surround them with love and unwavering support. And as we care for each other, we must also remember to care for ourselves. If you or someone you love needs support or connection, please visit our Resources and Upcoming Programs page. You are not alone.
In the face of ongoing pain, we continue to find light. That’s the spirit of this community: making space for both sorrow and celebration, heartbreak and hope. These moments test us, but time and again, they also reveal our courage, our compassion, and the very best in us.
Just over two weeks ago, we witnessed something magical at the Boulder Jewish Festival. What felt impossible became reality. In a single week, with deep intention and extraordinary effort, the festival team — Joy Alice Eisenhauer, Shari Blake Schnee, Jodi Zicklin, the Boulder JCC staff, and an incredible group of volunteers — reimagined the event and brought it to life. What unfolded was a powerful day that will remain in our hearts for a long time to come: a day that honored the victims of the June 1 attack and the hostages still in Gaza, lifted up the courageous work of Run for Their Lives, and celebrated the richness, culture, and joy of Jewish life.
More than 15,000 people gathered —heartbroken yet hopeful— to stand together and declare: we will not be silenced, and we will never stand alone. The world was watching, and what they saw was a community full of courage, unity, and determination.
That same light shines across our campus every day. In the laughter of preschoolers discovering the world. In the joy of Cherryvale campers making new friends and chasing adventure. In the quiet strength of volunteers tending our thriving farm and marveling at our newest baby goats. In multigenerational Shabbats—for families, those in their 20s and 30s, and those over 50, shared hikes and brewery tours with the Men and Women of the J, and at Babies at Bobolink walks. We hear it in the joyful catching up of our lobby knitters, and in the spirited conversations over popsicles before diving into an Exchange lecture.
As we have always done, we will continue to create spaces for connection and care, joy and meaning.
In every corner of this community, there is a reminder: we are still here. Still showing up, even in hard times. And always, bound together by love and joy.
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Jonathan Lev is the executive director, and David Paul is the board chair of the Boulder Jewish Community Center.