Former hostage advocates for the release of remaining captives in New York

In a poignant display of resilience and determination, tattoo artist Mia Schem, a former hostage held by Hamas, has embarked on a mission in New York City to advocate for the release of the remaining 101 hostages still in captivity. Schem, who holds both French and Israeli citizenship, was released on November 30, 2023, after enduring 54 harrowing days in captivity. Her story is not just one of survival but a call to action for the international community to recognize and respond to the plight of those still held by their captors.

The fight for freedom

“I must fight for the rest of the hostages – this is my life,” Schem stated emphatically, reflecting her commitment to those who remain in the hands of Hamas. Her experience, marked by trauma and pain, has fueled her resolve to be a voice for the voiceless. “I feel that I have a mission – to speak, to tell the world my story, for the other hostages who can’t,” she explained. This mission is deeply personal for Schem, who feels a profound connection to her fellow captives, stating, “My body is here, but my heart is still there in Gaza.”

Surviving the unimaginable

During her captivity, Schem faced unimaginable horrors, including a gunshot wound that required surgery performed by a veterinarian in Gaza. Despite her injuries, she received no medical assistance from her captors, who instead sought to break her spirit. “They told me all the time, ‘You will stay here, you will get married here,’” she recalled, revealing the psychological torment inflicted upon her. The most haunting aspect of her ordeal remains the fate of the young female hostages she left behind, whose stories she carries with her. “They say, ‘Please, this is my full name, tell my family. Don’t forget us,’” Schem recounted, her voice trembling with emotion.

Life after captivity

Since her release, Schem has undergone multiple surgeries to repair the damage inflicted during her captivity. The physical scars are accompanied by emotional trauma, as she grapples with the memories of her ordeal. “I can’t be in a closed room without air. I can’t breathe, even now,” she admitted, highlighting the lasting impact of her experience. Her advocacy work in New York is a stark contrast to the dreams she once had of visiting the city for joy and exploration. “Before October 7, my dream was to be in New York, to be in America, and to travel,” she reflected, now burdened by the weight of her mission.

As Schem continues to advocate for the remaining hostages, she hopes to raise awareness and inspire action. Her story serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by those who are still in captivity and the urgent need for their safe return. “I can’t heal because there are still hostages there,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and support for those who continue to suffer.