I’m reaching out to you from the heart of UCLA's campus, where the events of the last 24 hours have left our community reeling. Classes were abruptly canceled in the wake of the violence and chaos that erupted last night, and we were forced to shut down today’s scheduled JGO program. It's disheartening – especially considering how exactly thirteen years ago, when our organization was founded at UCLA, the administration went out of its way to welcome us.
I've spent the last two weeks going from campus to campus and what I'm seeing is making me more nervous and frustrated than ever. Concerned alumni, parents, and supporters across the country are inundating me with questions: How did we arrive at this point? How is it that students aren’t safe walking through campus simply because they proudly wear a Jewish star? What can we possibly do to turn this horrible tide?
These questions weigh heavily on my mind and heart.
Like those who have been asking me, I also don’t have clear answers. I do believe that much of the ability, and responsibility, to act here lies with the administrations of these institutions. Are they truly doing everything in their power to ensure the safety and wellbeing of their Jewish students? Sadly, the evidence often suggests otherwise.
But amidst this uncertainty, there is resolve. Our students have displayed incredible courage and strength of character. They are nothing short of amazing. They refuse to cower in fear or retreat into the shadows, and we won’t either. Instead, we will stand firm and continue doing whatever we can to ensure administrations maintain a safe and inclusive environment for Jewish students.
We will not let hate-filled, lawless protests silence our students or intimidate them into submission. That’s why we need individuals in our network who are willing to speak out on their behalf, unafraid to hold administrations accountable for their actions—or lack thereof.
As friends of JGO, you are vital to these efforts. It may come as a surprise to hear this from a charity, but right now what our students need most isn’t your donation; it’s your friendship, your connections, your ideas, and your voice.
If you think you might be able to help in any way, please be in touch. We and our students will be eternally grateful.
Standing on campus together.
