For the past two years, I’ve worn two pins on the lapel of each of my suit jackets — a yellow ribbon and a blue square. The yellow ribbon symbolized hope for the hostages, and the blue square stands against antisemitism. Both have served me well, as constant reminders of solidarity and hope, and as conversation starters with others.

On Monday morning, I removed the yellow ribbon pin and slipped it into my pocket. It was remarkably anticlimactic. After two years, relegating the pin to a pocket or a junk drawer felt inadequate — as though this small act couldn’t possibly match the weight of what it represented.

Later that morning, the Jewish Federations CEO WhatsApp group buzzed with ideas for marking the release of all our remaining living hostages. Several colleagues suggested creating a “Tree of Hope,” where community members could hang their yellow ribbons, dog tags, and other tokens of hope they’ve worn over the past two years. We loved this idea and immediately ordered a tree for our community.

We’ll be bringing our Tree of Hope to the Montana Tucker event on Wednesday evening, and we invite everyone to bring their own keepsakes to place on it. Together with the Capital District Board of Rabbis and Cantors, we’ll hold a brief ceremony to celebrate the return of the living hostages and reaffirm our shared spirit of resilience. After the event, the tree will remain on display in the Federation building, allowing the community to continue adding their tokens of hope.

Montana’s visit could not have been timed better. She has spent these past two years using her platform to inspire strength, courage, and unity. Her visit reminds us that when we come together — in hope, in healing, and in purpose — our community can truly shine.

Notes:

1. I recognize and respect that not everyone is ready to remove their yellow ribbons until all of the deceased hostages are brought home for burial.

2. I still wear the blue square

Register here for the event.