“Women Talking Bereavement”: A Growing WIZO Tradition on Yom HaZikaron

WIZO continues to lead a powerful and deeply moving initiative titled “Women Talking Bereavement”—a series of nationwide events designed to mark Yom HaZikaron (Israel’s Memorial Day) from a unique and vital perspective: that of women.

The program was created to give voice to the silent grief so often carried by mothers, wives, sisters, and daughters who have lost loved ones in Israel’s wars and terror attacks. Through personal testimonies, poetry, music, and open dialogue, these events provide a safe space for women to share their pain, strength, and resilience—while inviting the broader public to connect more personally with the national day of remembrance.

The need for such a program is clear. While Yom HaZikaron unites the country in collective mourning, women’s stories and emotional journeys are often underrepresented in official ceremonies. Women Talking Bereavement bridges this gap—honoring the immense emotional labor women bear and highlighting their role in shaping our collective memory and national healing.

Each year, dozens of events take place across Israel, from the north to the south—including in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, Kfar Saba and many more communities. These gatherings are organized by local WIZO branches and feature a range of speakers and formats, from intimate living-room conversations to larger public forums.

The program continues to receive overwhelming participation and appreciation. This year alone, more than 700 people attended, showing just how deeply this space for women’s grief is needed.

Through Women Talking Bereavement, WIZO continues its mission to strengthen Israeli society by supporting women and families in meaningful and transformative ways—even in the most painful moments.