As we come to the end of this journey, it feels meaningful to remember where we have been — not just over these past days, but across our history.

In November of 1894, the Cleveland Section of NCJW opened its doors. Two years later, in November of 1896, NCJW held its first national convention. Then, as now, we were talking about the urgent issues of our time — antisemitism, reproductive freedom, and how to raise the funds to meet the moment. From our earliest days, we have been driven by Jewish values and a deep belief in justice, compassion, and human dignity.

We have been talking about the work we have been doing in Israel since before it was a state. We have been supporting women, children, and families for generations. And we have been wrestling — then and now — with questions of peace and security, and with what it means to create a society that values all who live here, one grounded in equality and gender equity.

This week, we’ve met incredible people doing extraordinary work. We’ve listened, learned, and grappled together with what the future holds. As Laura said so beautifully, it matters deeply that we came now — before any of us knew that the people held hostage would be coming home. We came because being present is what NCJW has always done. We show up — with open hearts, with courage, and with hope.

I hope you, like me, leave this trip feeling profoundly connected to our work here — inspired by the people we’ve met, strengthened by the relationships we’ve built, and renewed in our commitment to build a world that reflects our Jewish values: a world rooted in justice, compassion, and care for one another.

May we carry this experience forward with purpose and faith — guided, as our foremothers were, by the conviction that our actions today can bring about the world we dream of tomorrow.