DENVER - On October 7, 2024, Governor Polis released the following statement, one year after the horrific October 7th Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel.

“Today, we commemorate and reflect on one year since the horrific Hamas attacks against Israel. October 7 is seared in memory as the deadliest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust. A day when families were attacked in their homes and in their daily lives, shattering the basic right to safety. A day when mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, children, neighbors, friends were taken hostage in Gaza.

These heinous attacks ignited a year of war, pain, loss, and devastation. And one year later, we continue to fight for the urgent release of the remaining one hundred or so hostages, including seven Americans, from captivity, and plea for greater peace and respect for human rights in the region.

The hostages still in captivity today include Ariel Bibas who was 9 months old when he was taken hostage, and 86 year old Shlomo Mantzu. It is time to bring them and all those in Hamas captivity home now.

Since October 7, we’ve seen antisemitism as well as Islamophobia rear its ugly head across the world. In Colorado, we stand strong against antisemitism and Islamophobia. Hate and violence have no home in Colorado. Not today, not one year ago, not ever.

We continue the work to build a Colorado for All where every person can live safely and thrive.

Just as we mourn the memory of those killed in Israel, we also mourn the heartbreaking loss of life in Gaza and Lebanon. May their memory be for a blessing. And may we soon know the safe return of the hostages and peace for the region.

It is imperative that all sides strive for a negotiated, diplomatic end to the devastating violence, and a return of all hostages to their homes.”