Earlier this week, I visited the Nova Exhibition in my hometown of Chicago. Even though I had visited the Nova site just four months after October 7th, I sensed that this experience would be more intense. I was right. And that intensity is part of what makes the exhibit so important.
After viewing the exhibit, I sat down with Doron Mizrahi. Doron, now 27, attended the Nova festival. He witnessed what he repeatedly describes as a “horror show”—a phrase that, as you’ll hear, is nothing if not an understatement. After saving several people and guiding them to safety, Doron went straight into the army reserves. Just three weeks after enduring the gruesome massacre, Doron was serving as a soldier in Gaza.
This episode is, in many ways, a love letter—to Doron’s family, especially his mother; to the army, which gave him purpose and belonging during his darkest hours; and to trance music. But perhaps most poignantly, this interview is a love letter to the Tribe of Nova, a deeply compassionate and organized community that has stepped in to support survivors on every level.
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I know we have many listeners in Chicago and across the United States. I want to encourage everyone to see the Nova Exhibition—especially those who may feel scared or apprehensive. Every person who walks through the exhibit enters into a profound relationship with this moment in Jewish history. But they also become part of a surprising emerging narrative—one of courage, healing, and love.
I hope you enjoy this very special interview. And for those who are able to visit, you can find more information about the Nova Exhibition at novaexhibtion.com.
Credits:
Host and Creator: Manya Marcus
Managing Producer: Eli Akselrod
Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick
Editor 2: Eli Akselrod
Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar
Outro Music: “Run Away” – Bizarre Contact
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