In recent months, Jewish students on college campuses have faced increasingly difficult circumstances, particularly since the violent events of October 7, 2023. The Anti-Defamation League has highlighted a significant rise in antisemitism, with many students reporting personal experiences or witnessing antisemitic incidents.
As the High Holy Days approach, many Jewish students seek to reconnect with their culture and community while navigating their new academic environments. Jewish organizations on campuses are stepping up to provide a home away from home during this challenging time.
Rabbi Ephraim Levin, co-director at the Chabad House at the University of Pennsylvania, has observed a notable increase in participation this year, with nearly 170 attendees for Shabbat services each Friday night. As Rosh Hashanah nears, the Chabad plans to hold services on both nights and days of the holiday. Levin notes, “We expect bigger turnouts at the evening meals.”
Over at the Drexel Chabad House, Rabbi Chaim Goldstein describes a unique atmosphere shaped by the academic calendar. Since classes at Drexel begin later than at many other institutions, students often arrive on campus just as the High Holidays commence.
“This year, Rosh Hashanah begins on the second day of classes, making it challenging for students just starting out,” Goldstein reflected. “Nevertheless, it’s encouraging to see many students proactively contacting their professors to take time off to celebrate with family or to participate in campus activities.”
The Mamash Chabad House, situated near Broad Street, is geared toward college students and young professionals. Rabbi Doniel Grodnitzky reports high attendance this year as well, with plans to engage around a thousand individuals in holiday programming from Rosh Hashanah through Simchat Torah.
Grodnitzky emphasizes the importance of providing a welcoming space for everyone, saying, “We create an environment where individuals can connect, pray, and enjoy meals together.” Many new faces attend during the High Holidays, some arriving with friends while others come alone seeking community.
At the University of Pennsylvania, the onset of the High Holidays typically sparks renewed interest in Chabad programs. For instance, the sukkah set up for Sukkot is large enough to accommodate close to 300 students. Levin attributes this increased engagement to Chabad’s proactive outreach efforts.
“Right on Locust Walk in the middle of campus, we set up a sukkah to engage with students,” he shared.
To promote participation in Rosh Hashanah traditions, Goldstein details a special walk along the Schuylkill River that passes through campus and towards Market Street, where they will blow the shofar. “This allows students to join in a meaningful prayer and sound the shofar,” he explained.
Levin echoes this sentiment, emphasizing their commitment to reaching out to Jewish students by visiting different spots across campus to blow the shofar. “We spend a lot of time doing that,” he noted.
Recognizing the challenges faced by Jewish students, particularly with the rise of antisemitism on campuses, both Levin and Goldstein find solace in the supportive measures taken by their respective universities. Levin expressed appreciation for the University of Pennsylvania’s efforts to make Jewish students feel safe and included.
“I believe the university has been very supportive and encouraging toward our community, especially in recent years,” said Levin, adding that this growing interest in community involvement will likely continue.
Goldstein reinforced the idea that food is a powerful tool for fostering connection among students. “Offering free food is key; it’s the path to the soul,” he remarked, mentioning that meals featuring brisket and apples with honey are particularly well-received during the High Holidays.
Despite the unsettling climate surrounding antisemitism, campus Jewish organizations are steadfast in their mission to ensure that Jewish students feel a sense of belonging and support during this important time. As students prepare for the High Holy Days, these organizations continue to create inclusive spaces, combining tradition, community, and the comfort of shared experiences.
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