As we approach Yom Kippur, the holiest day on the Jewish calendar, our community prepares for a time of deep introspection, forgiveness, and spiritual renewal. At Hasbara Fellowships, we extend our heartfelt wishes to you and your loved ones: Gmar Chatima Tova — may you be sealed for good in the Book of Life.
But even in this sacred season, our students are facing challenges that demand courage, clarity, and action.
Yom Kippur Targeted: The Situation at the University of Maryland
Last year, I spoke at the University of Maryland alongside Hasbara alumnus and Israeli Member of Knesset Dan Illouz. Our presentation was disrupted by Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) activists, who staged a walkout with fake “blood” on their hands — an appalling attempt to vilify us.
This year, the same SJP chapter scheduled a vote on an anti-Israel resolution during Kol Nidre services — deliberately placing it on the evening Yom Kippur begins.
Our Hasbara Fellows at UMD are responding with strength and leadership. They are rallying allies, organizing the pro-Israel community, and ensuring that Jewish students are not silenced or pushed aside on their most sacred day.
A Win for Accountability at Cornell
At Cornell University, justice prevailed when an Israeli student filed a complaint after being excluded from a course based on his nationality. The university opened a disciplinary case against Professor Eric Cheyfitz and ultimately suspended him — a rare and powerful stand for fairness.
Our Hasbara Fellows played a pivotal role. They stood by the student, challenged the administration, and ensured that Cornell could not ignore such blatant discrimination.
Hate Symbols at Dartmouth: A Sobering Reminder
Elsewhere, the challenges persist. At Dartmouth College, swastikas were discovered outside a Jewish student’s dorm room — a chilling reminder of the hostility our students can face, even in 2025.
These incidents are painful, but they also reinforce why our work is so urgently needed.
Why We’re Committed — Especially Now
As Yom Kippur approaches, we are reminded of our mission: to prepare Jewish students with the tools, confidence, and clarity to stand as proud advocates for Israel and themselves. The leadership of our Fellows at UMD, Cornell, and campuses across the country proves that when we are organized and united, we can make a lasting impact.
Thank you for standing with us in this season of reflection and purpose.
Gmar Chatima Tova,
