New York, NY (January 29, 2026) – UJA-Federation of New York, in partnership with the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, announced a groundbreaking art initiative to commemorate the New York community’s incredible advocacy and resolve to bring all the hostages home.

With the return of Ran Gvili, the last remaining hostage held in Gaza, UJA sent a message to the community asking for donations of the hostage tags and pins worn by so many since October 7 that will be used to create a public art installation. UJA has begun the process of selecting a professional artist to create the installation and is exploring permanent locations for its exhibition.  

For more than two years, these tags and pins represented our community’s anguish, hope, and unwavering commitment to bringing every hostage home,” said Eric S. Goldstein, CEO of UJA-Federation of New York. “By creating a permanent public artwork, we are preserving a lasting testament to the power of community, the strength of our advocacy, and recognizing the resilience of hostages who have returned home.”

Community members are invited to drop off their hostage tags and pins at more than 30 partner collection sites across New York City, Long Island, and Westchester found here: Hostage Tag Project.