In a poignant moment of remembrance and solidarity, participants at the Burning Man festival in Nevada stood in silence to honor the victims of the Nova music festival massacre in Israel.
The tribute, held on Sunday in the heart of the weeklong arts and culture gathering in the Black Rock Desert, was attended by Omer Shem Tov, who survived months in Hamas captivity after being abducted from the Nova festival near Kibbutz Re'im on October 7.
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Ophir Meir, one of the founders of the Nova festival, who was wounded that day while his wife was nine months pregnant, addressed the crowd alongside Shem Tov.
"When we are united, we are unbreakable," Meir said. "My daughter is living proof that even in the darkest times, life and hope can prevail. I am proud to stand here with Omer Shem Tov, who returned from captivity. We pray for the safe return of the other hostages. You are the light that guides us, and I promise you we will dance again."
The remarks were met with loud cheers and support from the audience.
Burning Man, which attracts tens of thousands from around the world, blends art, music, creativity, and communal experiences. The festival traditionally begins in late August and concludes on Labor Day in the US, the first Monday in September.
