In this special edition of the Fixer Focus, Fixer’s Founder & CEO, Nicole Marra, a Jewish American, and Fixer’s Executive Advisor - Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Yaseen Eldik, an Arab-Muslim American, reflect upon the Hamas terror attack in Israel, its aftermath, and the ways in which organizations can support their teams through this incredibly painful time.

We have been struggling to find the right words to describe our pain, anguish, and heartbreak since the horrific terrorist attacks carried out by Hamas in Israel on October 7th. Our attempts to process the devastation and grief, amidst the ensuing global conflict and polarized public discourse, have only become more difficult with each day, as the violence and suffering continues.

We know that many of us hold different personal views and connections to this conflict — making it even more difficult to know what to say, how to say it, how to listen, when and to whom. We are being flooded with horrific images and a variety of opinions, statements, symbols, and actions from the media, politicians, corporations, organizations, schools, community centers, and even social media influencers and celebrities. The torrent of commentary from all sides and in every format often with conflicting views or contradictory “facts” can be alarming, disorienting, and deeply affecting. While it is critical that we stay informed and do what we can to support others, we also understand that raw emotions and unfiltered conversations can feel overwhelming, frightening, and upsetting. 

As Jewish American and Arab-Muslim American colleagues and friends, we have always deeply respected our respective backgrounds and have been leaning heavily on each other to process our emotions – especially as we both try to find the “right words”. We are grateful to have our longstanding friendship and connection to discuss these painful and confusing issues, and know that not everyone has a similar outlook or outlet. 

At Fixer, we have always believed that creating opportunities for safe conversations increases empathy and decreases polarization – whatever the issue. One way we have been doing this work is by helping our clients create a sense of workplace community to help override the feelings of confusion and isolation that can deeply impact individuals at home and at work. We have found that teams - regardless of individual beliefs - embrace the opportunity to reflect, share their ideas and experiences, and ask meaningful questions. Facilitated forums offer a respectful opportunity to express empathy, share varied perspectives and viewpoints, and lead to people coming together over the common purpose of community building. 

We hold a deep belief that community is a powerful force for positive social engagement and change, and are praying for peace—and an end to the suffering—in Israel and Gaza.

Warmly,
Nicole & Yaseen

If you are struggling with ways to talk about these painful and sensitive topics, we’d love to share our perspective and support you.  Please contact us any time.