UJA-Federation of New York - The Hostage Tag Project

Commissioned by UJA-Federation of New York in partnership with The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, this documentary film follows UJA's The Hostage Tag Project and the creation of "Rooted: A Testament to Jewish Resilience" -- an art installation made from donated hostage tags and yellow ribbons. The art installation was curated by Shlomi Rabi of Bridgewell Arts and created by Dede Bandaid and Nitzan Mintz. Through interviews with UJA leadership and members of the public, the film brings together different perspectives on Jewish identity, collective memory, and remembrance. The five-minute film opened the October 7, 2026 programming at the Museum of Jewish Heritage, marking the third anniversary of the October 7 attacks.

Commissioned by: UJA-Federation of New York
In Partnership with: The Hostages and Missing Families Forum
Artists: Dede Bandaid & Nitzan Mintz
Art Curator: Bridgewell Arts' Founder, Shlomi Rabi
Context: Commissioned by UJA-Federation of New York, this documentary project explores the meaning behind The Hostage Tag Project and the large-scale public art installation made from donated hostage tags, yellow ribbons, and other personal pieces. Through conversations with UJA leadership, board members, and members of the public, the films bring together different perspectives on Jewish identity, collective memory, and remembrance.
* * *
Format: Short documentary film
Direction, Cinematography, Editing: Tess Forestieri
Music: Edan Laniado

↑Back to Top