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Dear Jewish Student,
There are so many of us, Jewish parents and former students, who are holding you in our hearts right now. While it’s profoundly disappointing, at a minimum, to see how potent antisemitism is around us, it’s also important to remember that you have inherited a legacy of strength, wisdom, and integrity. It’s a miracle that we are here today! No one is having conversations about contemporary Phoenicians or Babylonians — because they are ancient peoples — yet we still exist!
We have been through so much as a people, and we undoubtedly carry trauma with us from generations past. It’s okay to have feelings that are hard to comprehend — my peers and I are struggling with the same thing. Please know that you are far from alone.
Sending much love with another Jewish mother!
Dear Jewish Student,
I come to you as a Catholic sickened over today's environment for you. I come to you today to say you are not alone. We see you. We are praying for you (sooooo many of my Catholic friends). We are holding you up in our hearts. We applaud you for going to classes, living your life, trying to find normalcy. We will try to make it more normal for you. The mama bears have been poked. It doesn't matter if we are Jewish or not. Please know, there are droves of people who still believe in "Never Again" and are here to fight for that sense of peace for you and your families. We might not all be vocal or public, but know you have way more allies than you can fathom. We might have our own students who don't understand what you're feeling. Please reach out. They don't know how to initiate, but they will instinctively know how to respond and be your friend. Don't carry the burden alone. You are not alone. This is a humanity issue, not solely a Jewish issue. While I applaud and marvel and the Jewish community and the sense of family that is there, it doesn't mean those of us on the outside aren't feeling just as protective and supportive. This will pass, but our commitment to your peace will not.
With peace and love,
Poked Mama Bear
Dear Jewish Student,
I am reaching out from Berkeley, CA. I am thinking about you! These are stressful and tragic times. There is so much suffering in the world and Jews have historically been a target of hate. There has always been (and probably always will be) anti-semitism and bigotry of all kinds.
That being said, there are many things to be hopeful about. We are strong as a people. We have endured many struggles throughout our history and we are still standing and thriving. We have learned to support each other in good times and in bad. You can walk into a synagogue of (almost) any branch of Judaism anywhere in the world and be welcomed. We are a diverse community that values connection. There are Jews from all over the world who make up the rainbow population of the diaspora. If you aren't connected to a synagogue, I encourage you to seek one out for camaraderie and solace. Try Chabad or Hillel on yout campus.
When I am feeling scared and demoralized, I try to remember my Jewish values and our mission of Tikkun Olam (healing the world). I volunteer with several organizations (as a mentor to first-generation college students, as a dishwasher for an org that feeds the unhoused population in my city) and volunteerism definitely soothes the soul. If you are feeling hopeless right now, which is understandable, I highly recommend making time to help someone else. It feels really good and uplifting to be helpful and it may change your perspective on the world.
Anyway, I am sending you a big (consensual) mommy hug from Berkeley. Hang in there. This too shall pass.
Dear Jewish Student,
As a Jewish mother and bubby, I am reaching out to tell you that I am so sorry for the antisemitism you have and are experiencing. You are the futur of our community and should be able to hold your heads high without fear. You stand on the shoulders of thousands of Jews who contributions to this world in science, medicine,law, social services, economics, literature etc are too numerous to count.
You too will add to this proud legacy. Please know that our communities from around the world support and respect you and will always stand by you. Be proud of who you are and where you have come from. Don’t let anyone ever lead you to feel anything other than a contributing member of a strong, vibrant and giving people.
Much love
A mom and a bubby from Montresl.
Dear Jewish Student, I am a faculty member at one of the UCs (California) and I am inspired and SO SO impressed by my students who are activists stepping up. Keep up the good work. - UC Faculty Member
Dear Jewish Student,
I am so sorry that you're living in a world that antisemitism is not a thing of the past. As a parent of a high schooler, I fear for what campuses will look like when she attends. Thank you for being loud about antisemitism, we have your back.
Love,
A Jewish Mom