Vivian Silver: The Peace Activist Ends Her Journey Amidst Conflict
The passing of Vivian Silver, a beloved Canadian-Israeli peace activist, has left an indelible mark. Her life was cut short during the Hamas attack on Israel, a grim reminder of the ongoing Middle East conflict between Israel and the Palestinian territories.
The fateful day was October 7, 2023, a day that would forever change the lives of so many, including the esteemed Silver. Once a resident of Kibbutz Be'eri, a place targeted by Hamas militants, Vivian dedicated her life to promoting peace and understanding.
Tragic News Surfaces
Upon hearing the news of the Hamas attack, Vivian's son, Yonatan Zeigen, recounted their last phone conversation on that day. At 11:00 am, gunfire erupted around her house in Be'eri. Panicked, she penned a message to Yonatan, sharing her terrifying predicament: armed men had breached her sanctuary. This would be the last communication he received from his mother.
Amidst the chaos, the world held its breath for any glimmer of hope. Sadly, that hope dissipated quickly as the grim reality of Vivian's fate became apparent.
International Condolences Pour In
Canada, Germany, and other nations expressed their heartfelt condolences over the loss of this esteemed peace activist. Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly grieved Silver's passing, describing her as a lifelong advocate for peace. Her universal message of reconciliation resonated with the international community, alike.
German Ambassador Steffen Seibert echoed these sentiments, lamenting the fact that the forces of blind hatred had claimed Vivian's life. His message of condolences extended to "her family and many friends, Jews and Palestinians."
Vivian Silver's Legacy
Long before her untimely demise, Vivian Silver played an active role in various human rights organizations, including B'Tselem. Her tireless efforts were marked by courage and an unquenchable spirit for unity.
In 2014, she co-founded Women Wage Peace, an influential movement that now boasts over 45,000 members. Through this initiative, Vivian worked tirelessly to bridge the divide between Israeli and Palestinian communities. Her untimely demise has ignited a spark in thousands, furthering her vision of a peaceful, harmonious world.
Her funeral was a powerful testament to the impact she had on countless lives. Thousands of attendees, including Jewish and Arab women from various communities, honored her memory. As requiems echoed through the air, the nigun (melody) that Vivian and other Hasidim often sang served as a poignant reminder of her enduring legacy.
Gone, but not forgotten, Vivian Silver leaves a profound impact on the world. Her dedication to peace stands as a tangible beacon, inspiring generations to pursue peace and understanding.
