A group of American Jewish students arrived in Israel to learn about the terror attack carried out by Hamas terrorists on October 7 and discuss ways to combat anti-Jewish and anti-Israel activities at their universities. These students, who have faced antisemitism on their college campuses, hope to gain a new perspective and take more action against hate. The recent protests at U.S. universities have intensified as Israel responds to Hamas attacks, with Jewish and Israeli students becoming targets of anger and hate.
During the weeklong “Take Action for Israel” trip, 22 students from various universities will meet with top Israeli officials, hear firsthand testimonies from survivors of the attack, and visit communities around the Gaza Strip. Some students, like Joshua Shain from Columbia University, have experienced multiple antisemitic attacks on their campuses and are determined to stand up against those denying the atrocities of October 7. This trip aims to equip them with tools to combat hate and antisemitism in their respective campuses.
Jack Landstein, a student from the University of Michigan, described how anti-Israel groups have set up encampments on campus, spewing hate speech and creating a hostile environment for Jewish students. He hopes that visiting Israel will give him the skills needed to counter antisemitism and hate on campus. These students have faced death threats, insults, and intimidation, prompting them to take action against the rising tide of antisemitism on American campuses.
Joshua Shain, a biology major at Columbia University, shared his experiences of antisemitism on campus, including verbal assaults, insults, and threats. He emphasized the need for the Jewish and non-Jewish communities to come together to condemn the atrocities of October 7 and stand against those denying the truth. These students are determined to fight against hate and create a safe environment for all students on their campuses.
The students hope that their universities will take a stronger stand against antisemitism and hate speech on campus. They are calling for enforcement of campus rules, quick shutdown of extremist groups, and a safer learning environment for all students. Omer Nativ from Rutgers University expressed her hope that the administration would provide more support for Jewish professors and students. By sharing their experiences and taking action, these students aim to combat antisemitism and create a more inclusive environment on their college campuses.
As these American Jewish students embark on a journey to Israel to learn more about the October 7 terror attack and its aftermath, they are determined to stand up against antisemitism and hate on their college campuses. By gaining new perspectives, meeting survivors, and visiting affected communities, they hope to equip themselves with the tools needed to combat hatred and create a safer environment for all students. Through their actions and advocacy, these students aim to make a difference in the fight against antisemitism in the U.S. and beyond.
