U of I Jewish communities respond to campus pro-Palestine protests
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — As pro-Palestinian protests take place on the University of Illinois campus, Jewish leaders are assuring that resources for support are available to people who need them.
The Illini Chabad’s Student Board posted on Facebook that they are rendering “unwavering support” for Jews on campus and upholding security for not just them, but non-Jews as well.
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The student board’s full statement can be read below:
In the face of the challenging times on our campus and across the country, we, the student board members of Illini Chabad at the University of Illinois, would like to render our unwavering support for all of our fellow Jewish brothers and sisters. We stand firmly behind Israel’s right to exist and hope for a peaceful solution. As tensions remain high, the board and our fellow students remain steadfast in our commitment to upholding the safety and security of Jews and non-Jews alike who call the University of Illinois home. We would like to thank Rabbi Dovid and Goldie Tiechtel along with the rest of the Illini Chabad team, the UIPD, Campus Administration, Illini Hillel, as well as those who are helping us maintain a campus where we can be unequivocally safe and feel proud to be Jewish.
You are not alone! Chabad is here for you around the clock, seven days a week. Together, we will get through this.
Illini Chabad Student Board
Rabbi Tiechtel also issued a brief statement on Facebook in response to Saturday’s protest on the Quad, saying “the university is on this, working to keep our campus a safe place and no interference to students’ studies. Goldie and I are here for you 24/7, come by Illini Chabad at any hour.”
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Meanwhile, Illini Hillel’s Executive Director, Erez Cohen, released a statement Sunday night that said university administration has discouraged counter-protests in an effort to deescalate the ongoing situation. He also said that both administrators and police have assured Hillel that they are prioritizing student safety, and have even added additional patrols in the area.
Cohen added that Hillel is currently looking to add their own additional security through the Jewish United Fund.
“We are grateful for the overflow of support that we have received in recent days,” he said. “The kind words, care packages and financial support are all greatly appreciated and being put to good use in these challenging times.”
All Hillel activities and events will still go on as planned, Cohen said. Any questions can be shared via email at erez@illinihillel.org or by calling 217-344-1328.
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