During a recent city council meeting, a speaker poignantly addressed the theme of \"never again,\" a phrase deeply rooted in the collective memory of the Holocaust and its aftermath. The speaker, a Jewish activist, drew parallels between historical genocides and current conflicts, emphasizing the moral imperative to prevent such atrocities from recurring.

Reflecting on the anniversary of the war in Gaza, which fell on October 7th, the activist expressed a profound sense of sorrow over violence, both against animals and humans. They articulated a vision of hope and healing, advocating for peace and reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians. The speaker highlighted the importance of understanding the term \"never again\" as a commitment not only to remember the past but to actively work towards a future where such suffering is not repeated.

The activist referenced the writings of Eli Wiesel, who described \"never again\" as a prayer and a promise, and quoted Amica Lao Lavie, who posed the question of what this phrase means in 2024. The speaker's message was clear: \"never again\" must extend beyond historical contexts to encompass a broader commitment to humanity, urging collective action to ensure that the traumas of the past do not define the future.

In a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict, the speaker noted that 80,000 tons of ammunition have been dropped on Gaza, underscoring the urgent need for dialogue and understanding in the face of violence. The call for peace resonated throughout the meeting, highlighting the shared responsibility to foster a world where all individuals can thrive together.