Remembering Vivian Silver: A Beacon of Peace Lost

Family and friends gathered to commemorate the life of Vivian Silver, a renowned Canadian-Israeli peace activist, following confirmation of her death at the hands of Hamas militants on October 7. The 74-year-old, who had been a resident of Kibbutz Be’eri in Israel since 1974, was initially believed to have been taken hostage during a cross-border raid by Hamas. However, this hope was shattered when authorities identified her remains earlier this week.

A Life Dedicated to Peace

Silver, a founding member of the organization Women Wage Peace, dedicated her life to campaigning for a peaceful resolution between Israel and Palestine. Her son, Yonatan Zeigen, expressed his deep loss at the outdoor memorial service, stating that not only was he orphaned by her passing, but so were her friends, the country she adopted, and the entire peace movement.

The Devastating Impact of October 7

The violent events of October 7 resulted in the death of around 1,200 people and the kidnapping of approximately 240, as per Israeli records. The attack triggered a significant military response from Israel in Gaza, where local health officials reported over 11,500 Palestinian casualties.

Kibbutz Be’eri: A Community of Peace

Kibbutz Be’eri, established in 1946, is known for its secular, left-wing ethos, focusing on an egalitarian and collective farming community. Silver, like many in this community, maintained friendships with Palestinian and Arab individuals, underscoring her commitment to coexistence and peace.

A Bond Beyond Borders

During the memorial, Ghadeer Hani, a Palestinian friend of Silver, recounted their final communications on the day of the attack, highlighting the close bond they shared. Silver’s commitment extended beyond advocacy, as she was known for assisting sick Gazans in getting medical treatment in Israeli hospitals.

Legacy of Vivian Silver

Women Wage Peace recognized Silver as a pivotal figure in their movement, advocating tirelessly for a political resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Hani vowed to continue Silver’s legacy, insisting that her vision for peace in the region would not be buried with her.

The loss of Vivian Silver marks a significant blow to the peace movement, both in Israel and globally. Her life and efforts serve as a testament to the power of hope and the enduring pursuit of peace amid conflict.