Debates, doughnuts and diplomacy this December

The following email was sent out to all subscribers on 19/12/24

Dear Friend,

Just as the Maccabees came together to show unrivalled strength and resilience to overcome adversity, over this term UJC’s Chaplains and Jewish students have come together, to prove that the light of Jewish joy continues to burn bright on campuses across the UK and will not be extinguished.

Whilst the worst threats and hostilities experienced by students in the 2023-24 academic year have not been matched this term, some threats sadly still remain. A recent Middle East debate at the Oxford Student Union saw zionist panellists heckled, including anti-extremist Arab-Israeli ‘Son of Hamas’ Mosab Hassan Yousef being ejected from the panel.

The now infamous debate at Oxford last month has upset and unsettled many Jewish Students, which new Chaplaincy Couple Rabbi Moish & Tanya Blum are dealing with first hand. Many students, some in tears, have come to them shocked and scared at the scenes displayed at the Union, and are fearful about how welcome they are on campus.

UJC’s approach has been centred around providing welfare support to all students affected. Our Oxford Chaplains have been in contact with the University and relevant intermediary bodies to ensure the safety of Jewish students. They have worked together with both the outgoing and incoming Jewish Society, to streamline and coordinate the approach to the University of Oxford, as well as scenario planning with CST and the campus security teams ahead of any possible further unrest. Future meetings have been set up with the Central University Staff ahead of the upcoming term to discuss how the University can appropriately support and mitigate against further incidents.

In a more celebratory light, Rabbi Eliran and Ayalah Shabo together with the JSoc, hosted the second major Scottish Student Shabbat between 6-7 December in Edinburgh. This huge event brought together 155 Jewish students studying at universities across the county, from Aberdeen to Glasgow, together with the First Minister of Scotland – John Swinney – for a weekend of fun activities and learning, with many new friendships formed.

Chanukah Comes Early To Campus…

With Chanukah falling in the middle of the winter break this year, UJC Chaplains hosted a series of pre-Chanukah parties, giving students the opportunity to celebrate a successful first term before breaking up for the holidays.

• Students from across London universities came together for a Chanukah on Ice event together with our London Chaplain Rabbi Gav and UJS.

• Chanukah themed bagel lunch in Warwick with Rabbi Fishel Cohen

• An appropriately themed doughnut decorating masterclass in Bristol with our Chaplains Atara and Rabbi Asaf

• Pre-Chanukah interfaith party in Edinburgh attracted 30 students

• Ahead of the Chanukah season, students in Nottingham enjoyed Karaoke and Cocktails

Thoughts from Campus…

“Rabbi Natan, our university Chaplain, has been a cornerstone of support and warmth for Jewish students in Liverpool. His lively Tuesday dinners have become a cherished tradition, bringing us together with great food, meaningful conversation, and a sense of community. On the high holidays, he and his wife, Avital, along with their family, open their home to us, creating a welcoming and inclusive space where we can celebrate and connect.

No matter your level of Jewish knowledge, Rabbi Natan is always ready to help you learn more, fostering growth and understanding in a supportive way. During troubling times on campus, he has been there to offer guidance and comfort, making us feel like part of his extended family. I am deeply grateful for all that he and his family do to enrich our lives and provide a welcoming presence for all Jewish students on campus.”

Shane Baybutt, 4th year, Pharmacy, Liverpool John Moores University

Mazel Tov to Louis Danker

Following his election last weekend, we wish to send congratulations to UJS president-elect, Louis Danker and look forward to working with him through the handover in summer 2025.

As the global political landscape shifts to a new phase, we remain cautiously optimistic that 2025 will see calmer times in the Middle East, which will be mirrored on university campuses both here and abroad. Whilst we remain vigilant and braced to respond to difficult situations, your continued support means that we can continue to shine a bright light for Jewish students, securing their safe future and happiness on campus. If you are able to support our work at this time, please consider making a donation through one of the buttons below.

Best wishes and Happy Chanukah,

Sophie Dunoff,

Chief Executive Officer