A Night of Unity and Harmony: Concert for Unity at The HÜG Place

Israeli singer-songwriter, now Akron resident, Raim Feinstein, sings with New Hope Choir at The HÜG Place.

Akron, OH – On October 15, 2023, The HÜG Place, once a Jewish Temple, hosted the Concert for Unity, a testament to the enduring spirit of unity and love through the arts. Organized by Jewish Akron in collaboration with the John Brown Institute/Summit County Historical Society, this event brought together diverse communities in a powerful celebration of love and harmony through the arts.

The evening began with the Unity with Israel Walk, an unexpected yet impactful addition to the event. As Israel faced challenges, Jewish Akron organized a community walk from the King Community Center to The HÜG Place, displaying unified support for Israel. Stephanie York, executive director of the Shaw Jewish Community Center of Akron, set the tone for the walk, stating, "Let today be a day of unity – a day when our voices raised as one echo across the city in our message of unwavering support for Israel resounds loud and clear."

Singer-songwriter Rami Feinstein with vocalist, Rachel Osherow, at The HÜG Place.

Led by Rami Feinstein, Jewish Akron community shaliach, Stuart Glauberman, Jewish Akron board chair, and his family, about 100 people marched with Israeli flags and handmade signs, turning Merriman Road into a sea of blue and white. The walk concluded at The HÜG Place, where the community gathered for A Concert of Unity.

The Concert for Unity became a bridge between cultures, fostering understanding and solidarity in the face of adversity. Israeli singer-songwriter Rami Feinstein, Akron resident and witness to recent unrest in Israel, took the stage with a blend of "folk-rock-funky" music, adding a profound layer to the evening's performance. Vocalists from various backgrounds, including the New Hope Gospel Choir, emphasized the universality of music as a means to transcend differences.

Reflecting on the decision to proceed with the concert during challenging times, Feinstein expressed, "As a musician, it's even hard for me to go on stage right now. My people are hurting. I think if you're a human being and you've seen what happened, you're hurting for Israel." This heartfelt sentiment encapsulated the emotional depth and healing potential of the arts.

The Concert for Unity stands as a remarkable chapter in Akron's cultural history, symbolizing the strength that emerges when communities come together. Through music's universal language, The HÜG Place echoed with a message of hope, love, and unity that resonated far beyond the notes played throughout the evening.

To learn more: Jewish Akron, The HÜG Place, EventsAkron.com.