A group of Jewish students at Columbia University recently released an open letter expressing their discomfort with the ongoing tensions on campus. The letter, titled “In Our Name: A Message from Jewish Students at Columbia University,” was signed and shared by a coalition of Jewish students and did not attribute itself to a specific campus organization. The students highlighted their frustration with being represented by various groups and individuals who do not necessarily share their views or experiences, including alumni, politicians, and some of their Jewish peers who claim to represent ‘real Jewish values.’
The letter emphasizes that the students feel targeted for their belief in Israel’s right to exist as their ancestral and religious homeland. They also express concern about the misuse of the term ‘Zionist’ as a derogatory synonym for racism, oppression, or genocide. The students acknowledge that antisemitism is a multifaceted issue that continues to evolve over time. Despite not all being religiously observant, many of the signatories consider Zionism to be a crucial component of their Jewish identities, given their history of displacement from various countries.
Signed by over 100 students at the university, the letter calls for a de-escalation of ideological conflicts on campus while rejecting demands for individuals to renounce their Zionist beliefs. The students argue that Israel is not just their ancestral homeland but also the only place where Jews can safely control their own future. The letter was shared online by prominent figures such as Students Supporting Israel President Eden Yadegar and Columbia Political Review Senior Editor Elisha Baker, among others. The signatories hope to promote peace and constructive dialogue as an alternative to the violent protests that have been happening on campuses nationwide.
In conclusion, the Jewish students at Columbia University hope to address the hateful rhetoric and divisive binaries that currently plague the campus. They believe that it is never too late to work towards healing the divides and fostering meaningful relationships across various political and religious perspectives. The letter also cites a Jewish tradition that urges individuals to ‘love peace and pursue peace,’ emphasizing the importance of seeking reconciliation and understanding. The students invite their peers to join them in the pursuit of peace, truth, and empathy, with the ultimate goal of repairing their campus community.
