PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Community members in the Ocean State are set to commemorate October 7.

Rhode Islanders are looking back on a year of conflict and protests as the war in Gaza continues.

The Jewish community in Providence is set to hold an event remembering those who have been lost or impacted by the war tonight.

The Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island will hold its memorial event at 7 p.m. tonight at the Dwares Jewish Community Center on Elmgrove Avenue, marking one year since the attacks in Israel.

This comes just days after hundreds gathered for another protest that was held at the Rhode Island State House in support of Palestine and Lebanon as organizations.

Al Jazeera has reported nearly 43,000 deaths in Palestine since the conflict began.

Members of the Providence College community will be participating in a candle-lit Rosary at 8 p.m., in St. Dominic Chapel to pray for the healing of the conflict in the Middle East.

A peace and justice rally for both Israel and Palestine will be held at Memorial Park on South Main St. and College St. starting at 7 p.m.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Hundreds gathered at the Rhode Island State House as part of a global day meant to show solidarity with the Palestinian people, as instability continues in the Middle East.

Organizers said it was the largest protest for Palestine in Rhode Island since the beginning of the war in Gaza began in October 2023.

More than 1,000 people were expected by the time of a vigil at the end of the day.

Activists said they considered the showing as part of a broader message.

“This is not just something that ends today or tomorrow, it’s a lifelong commitment to be a part of a liberation struggle, not just for Palestine, but for oppressed people everywhere,” Party for Socialism and Liberation organizer Yosan said.

Meanwhile, members of the Rhode Island coalition for Israel organized a small counter-protest, referencing the terror attack by Hamas in Israel last whose anniversary approaches.

“A year later, as a Jew, as Jews all over the world, we still can’t believe what happened Oct. 7,” RICI Board Member Ken Schneider said. “Nobody is listening to them. We came out here today to show them that we know what’s going on, and we need to push back.”

Leading up to the rally and vigil, Rhode Islanders hosted a series of events, including art display, dances, and fundraisers for people in Gaza.

Organizers added that it was the beginning of a week-long series of actions across the state.

Here’s a clue to help you consider whether you want to relocate in retirement to Rhode Island: Its state nickname is the Ocean State. Nestled in New England, it’s one of the original 13 colonies and home to the historic towns of Providence and Newport.

By some measures, Rhode Island falls short of ideal, ranked the 30th-best state for retirement by Bankrate. For example, it’s not one of the 41 states that don’t tax Social Security benefits. Pension income, along with withdrawals from 401(k) and IRA accounts, are either partially or fully taxable. (There are exemptions of up to $20,000 each for pension and annuity income, which can ease the pain significantly.) The state has an estate tax, too.

What about healthcare? Rhode Island scores fairly well, ranked the 16th-best state in the nation for elderly healthcare by MedicareGuide.com.

The cost of living, according to the World Population Review, is about 11% above the national average — which isn’t ideal, but not that terrible, either. The typical home price in Rhode Island was recently $478,722 — about 31% above the national average. Car insurance, too, is a little steep. It averages $3,494 annually, $477 above average.

If your pencil is about to scratch Rhode Island off your list, hold off on that. Rhode Island is a charming small state, with beaches, parks, and plenty of recreational opportunities. It’s home to the Johnson & Wales culinary school and many terrific restaurants. There’s much history and culture to enjoy in Rhode Island — including theater and music festivals — and Rhode Islanders are also only one to three hours away from Boston, Vermont, New York City, and Maine.

The climate, meanwhile, is moderate. Hurricanes do hit the state on occasion, though.

If you’re intrigued, read up on Rhode Island. Consider spending at least a few months in any location you’re thinking about to make sure it’s a good fit for you and your overall retirement plan.