For Jewish college students like me who were sent home from our colleges and universities last March, the effect was at first chaotic. We were, like everyone else in the nation, afraid for the health and safety of our families and of our communities. Add to this that we were about to process all of the madness away from our campus Jewish communities - the social gatherings, Shabbat services, and holiday meals that anchor our lives.
But for some of us, I confess, there was a bit of relief. As outspoken opponents of anti-Semitic activity on campus, we suspected we were in for at least a little reprieve. We wouldn't have to worry about divestment debates, or student organizations targeting Jewish students and professors. We wouldn't have to stay up until the wee hours, comforting a distraught student at Hillel because of a strangely personal anti-Israel comment made in her political science course. Most importantly, we wouldn't have to worry about hiding our Jewishness or love of Israel.
Read Full Article »