At the Democratic National Convention, Israeli-American parents Jon Polin and Rachel Goldberg made a heartfelt plea for the release of their son Hersh, held hostage for 320 days, emphasizing the humanitarian need for his safe return.

The poignant appeal by Polin and Goldberg highlights the emotional toll of their son’s captivity and the urgent call for action to address the plight of hostages held by Hamas. With around 109 individuals still unaccounted for, including several Americans, the couple's message transcends political divides, urging leaders for a cease-fire and compassionate response, as they rally support from both sides of the aisle, seeking to bring their son home and advocate for all hostages.

During their presentation at the convention, Jon Polin and Rachel Goldberg described the overwhelming anguish and misery they have experienced since the abduction of their son. Polin articulated a stark perspective of their reality, asserting, "We feel like we live on another planet due to the pain of our situation." His words reflected the isolating nature of grief and the enduring trauma that families of hostages confront.

Accompanying their emotional speech, the couple wore yellow ribbons and tape featuring the number 320, marking the specific duration of their son’s captivity. This simple yet impactful gesture served as a haunting reminder of the long wait for justice and reunion, emphasizing that each day counts in the harrowing journey of families affected by ongoing conflicts.

Rachel Goldberg shared a glimpse into Hersh's life before his kidnapping, calling him a happy-go-lucky boy. She recounted moments leading to the attack that resulted in his abduction, underlining their loss not just as parents, but as a family robbed of ordinary happiness. Her heartfelt recollection painted a picture of the vibrant life that has been overshadowed by grief and uncertainty since his disappearance.

Polin echoed the necessity of addressing the broader context of the hostages' ordeal, highlighting the urgent need for a cease-fire. He remarked, “The return of hostages is a humanitarian issue, not a political one.” His focus on humanity rather than politics illustrated the couple’s desire to shift the narrative towards compassion and empathy, which they see as imperative in resolving such conflicts effectively.

The emotional weight of their plea resonated with the audience, many of whom were visibly moved, with attendees shedding tears and sporting 'Bring them home' bracelets during their address. This collective display of support brought to light the widespread concern for all hostages currently in peril, fostering a setting of unity amid adversity.

Goldberg concluded her speech with a direct message to her son, expressing, 'Hersh, if you can hear us, we love you. Stay strong, survive.' This poignant statement underscored the despair and hope intertwined in their experience — a heartfelt reminder that love and tenacity persist even in the darkest times.

Polin further acknowledged the efforts made by both Democrats and Republicans in seeking the release of hostages, emphasizing the bipartisan support that has emerged in response to their situation. This collaborative approach illustrates a shared commitment across party lines to address what they agree is a pressing humanitarian crisis.

The couple has also had the opportunity to engage with high-ranking officials, including President Biden and Vice President Harris, to discuss ongoing hostage negotiations. These meetings reflect an active involvement by the couple in seeking diplomatic resolutions, aiming to raise awareness of the plight faced by countless families in similar circumstances.

The plight of hostages remains critical, as around 109 are currently believed to be held by Hamas, highlighting the urgency of finding solutions to end the suffering for both hostages and their families. This number serves as a reminder that the consequences of conflict extend far beyond the battleground, affecting lives and communities in profound ways.