Dar Halevy-Feldman’s journey from Israel to the forefront of combating antisemitism is both inspiring and pivotal in today’s fight against hate. As the executive director of leading nonprofit organization Faces of October 7th, she is dedicated to this cause.
Her comprehensive approach, which merges education, community engagement and strategic policy initiatives, addresses the multifaceted nature of extremism and antisemitism.
“I love fighting for the right to live and exist,” Halevy-Feldman passionately states, highlighting the deep personal and professional commitment driving her work.
She adds: “Antisemitism is not a relic of the past; it evolves and adapts to new contexts and technologies.”
“Modern antisemitism manifests in various forms, from violent attacks to insidious online hate speech.”
Halevy-Feldman’s nonprofit organization has been at the forefront of identifying and countering these threats through innovative strategies: “Dealing with people who have been indoctrinated with different beliefs is challenging,” she says.
Halevy-Feldman admits: “But my speciality is creatively exposing them to the truth and explaining the situation in Israel.”
To this end, Halevy-Feldman has collaborated with a number of high profile organizations to highlight the plight of those affected by the events of October 7th. As the Co-Founder and President of the nonprofit Faces of October 7th, Halevy-Feldman spearheads the establishment of initial connections with a wide range of institutions, including universities, colleges, and community organizations across North America.
This ensures a broad platform for survivors’ stories, facilitating widespread impact and engagement. She leads fundraising initiatives, engaging with donors to secure the financial resources necessary to support the organization’s mission and expand its reach.’
Her efforts include crafting compelling narratives that resonate with stakeholders and demonstrate the significant impact of their contributions.
‘I am passionate about allowing them to tell their stories and also highlight their experiences. It can often be a delicate balance between the two. But it is something that drives me,” says Halevy-Feldman.
“It really is the new frontier of trying to encourage education and stamp out antisemitism.”
Karen Parry, Executive Director, Hillel of San Diego where Halevy-Feldman held the role of Director of Israel Engagement and Community Relations.
In this position, Halevy-Feldman created and led Israel and Jewish education programs for academic and local community members from all faiths and backgrounds. She managed student and non-student boards, fostered collaborations with various organizations, and handled fundraising, grant writing, resource development, and budget management.
Parry reveals: “Dar always wanted to provide a high quality experience that educated and captured the hearts and minds of all who participated. She absolutely did that with everything she organized and her work was a testament to her dedication and passion.”
Education remains a cornerstone of Halevy-Feldman’s approach to combating antisemitism: “We believe that education is the key to long-term change,” Halevy-Feldman states. These programs focus on teaching Jewish history, the contributions of Jewish communities throughout history, and the contemporary challenges they face.”
Halevy-Feldman’s strategy also emphasizes the importance of community engagement. Her group also establishes numerous community-led programs to build bridges between diverse communities and foster mutual understanding and respect.
Elisabeth Krebs, Program Manager for the B’nai B’rith International has also worked with Halevy-Feldman. They collaborated on a Faces of October 7th event. She recalls: “Dar has been in contact with us a lot, always thinking about our organization and aligning with our mission. She was supportive and responsive, and I am confident in her for future collaborations. She is relatable and has experience working with various populations, which makes her very effective.”
Krebs was incredibly impressed with how Halevy-Feldmnan worked with survivors who came to speak as part of the programs they worked on together: “A wonderful attribute of Dar is how she made the survivors feel less nervous and anxious about speaking in front of a group. She coached them well, giving them a good foundation to share their stories. “She did the same for us, prepping us thoroughly. Her determination and passion have really led to establishing this organization as something people can go to and want to work with.”
Krebs adds: “Her work on campuses and understanding of the Gen Z population is a real benefit. She knows how to speak to people and have them open up their minds about what is happening. She just has that sense and ability to communicate effectively.”
Ronit Boyd, the Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey’s Chief Innovation and Impact Officer, agrees with Krebs’s view on Halevy-Feldman’s work: “Dar did a program for us and was sensitive to both sides from the outset,” she recalls.
“Dar looks out for the whole person; Dar brought a young woman who felt safe enough to share her story because of her support. She even asked me to guide this woman regarding interfaith marriages, knowing my personal experience. Dar’s sensitivity and support extend beyond her immediate role.”
‘Boyd adds: “We need Dar in our community. She understands both the American and Israeli communities and can bridge cultural differences. Since October 7, we’ve been trying to work more systematically together, and having someone like Dar, who gets the nuances of both communities, is invaluable. We need to be unified but not uniform, and Dar can help accomplish that.”
The President of Hillel at Rider University, Ethan Handelman, says he first heard about Halevy-Feldman’s work with Faces Of October 7th online: “heard about Dar, and what she was trying to start, through social media. All the reviews were nothing but extrordinary. I respect her drive, and I would consider Dar a mentor, because she has given so much advice and has really opened my eyes to advocating strongly for the Jewish people.”
He adds: “Since the event at my school, Dar has helped me network with various Jewish leaders in Hillel International, as well as helping me get in contact with various Jewish individuals around the country through her expertise and connections.”
“Her experience with leading young Jewish adults, as well her motivation really speaks volumes. It made me very confident about the Faces of October 7th event. Dar is extremely organized and like I said, strong-willed. Dar goes above and beyond to get things done, and spread messages on combating antisemitism.”
Halevy-Feldman’s vision is undoubtedly one of inclusivity and resilience, where every community can live free from fear and hatred. She also emphasizes the importance of resilience and adaptability in advocacy work.
“The fight against antisemitism is not just about protecting the Jewish community; it’s about safeguarding the values of democracy and human rights for all.”
She remains optimistic yet realistic about the challenges ahead: “The road ahead is long, but we are not alone.”
Her organization also plans to expand its outreach efforts, including launching new programs aimed at college students and young professionals, whom she sees as crucial allies in the fight against antisemitism.
Halevy-Feldman is also focused on strengthening global partnerships. “Antisemitism is a global issue that requires a coordinated response,” she explains.
Her organization works with international bodies, including the Human Rights arm of the United Nations based in Geneva, to share best practices and develop joint strategies for combating hate worldwide.
Halevy-Feldman’s leadership marks a new era of advocacy in the fight against antisemitism and extremism. Her multifaceted approach, combining education, community engagement, policy advocacy and national security, sets a powerful example for others to follow.
Through her tireless efforts, she is combating hate and building a foundation for a more inclusive and resilient society. As she continues to break new ground, her work will undoubtedly impact the Jewish community and beyond.