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In the immediate aftermath of the massacre of innocent Israeli civillians by Hamas on October 7th, Chabad lept to action to support students and the Jewish community here at Ohio State.
Since then, the focus of the Chabad House has shifted somewhat, as we work on strengthening the students' Jewish pride, empowering them to stay strong and unwavering in their convictions and instilling in them a stronger love and sense of commitment to their Judaism and Jewish continuity. Of course, their safety is a top priority and so we have increased our security at the Chabad House and are constantly working with OSUPD and the administration to protect our OSU Jewish community.
We have also collaborated with students to implement a number of Pro-Israel programs and events to raise awareness on campus as well as to help them find their voices in these times of adversity. We hosted a rally on the Oval, attended by almost 500 students who felt pride and connection. We offered an educational seminar to the students who felt they needed clear and true information to be able to fight this fight. Additionally we offered a breathwork session for mental health and a self defense class.
The students raised over $1400 in Challah and Tshirt sales for Magen David Adom. In partnership with Hillel and Jewish Columbus, we brought 2 buses with over 50 students to the rally in DC. The students who attended felt uplifted, motivated and inspired to be part of such a strong and loving nation. As part of a Unity Shabbat with Hillel we hosted Jay and Jeanie Schottenstein who reassured the students that they are doing everything they can with the administration to protect the students and empowered them to stay strong in the face of evil. We also hosted the OSU interim President and a member of the board of trustees to listen to the students, hear them out and allow them to express their feelings and experiences. With antisemitism on the rise at OSU they need to know that they are heard and understood. In addition community members and students met with the Ohio Lt. Governor Husted who shared what the state can do for the Jewish community.
A huge group of students worked with us on an empty hostage table exhibit outside the Wexner Plaza. They worked tirelessly to make this installation beautiful and extremely impactful. We provided them with the resources and supplies. The students were proud to be able to do something that publicized to the Ohio State community the horrors of the hostages held in Gaza.
We continue to be a source of support and comfort for the hundreds of students who walk through our doors. We help them process what is going on as well as give them an outlet for their sadness and frustration. By adding in their mitzvot they can use their confused emotions for something good.
We help them wrap tefillin, light Shabbat candles, pray and add in their Torah learning. The spiritual connection to our faith is crucial, now more than ever, and it helps them turn their emotions into actions. It helps them strengthen their connection with God and fortifies their Jewish pride. It also helps them to understand the depth of Judaism and gives them what to be proud of!
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