Written by: Jonathan Greenblatt on September 6, 2022
It’s that time of year, when tens of thousands of Jewish students are starting at colleges across the United States. And for the first time now, I can say that I’m also the parent of a Jewish college student. Just like all the other kvelling parents, I am excited to see our children thrive, expand their understanding of the world, and meet friends they will carry throughout their lives.
But also, like any parent, I worry. Reaching this important milestone, moving off to a new adventure, living independently, is both sweet and sad. One thing I should not have to worry about — what no parent should have to worry about — is my child’s safety while at school. Too many parents of Jewish students worry about their children being able to live and practice Judaism openly and feel safe in their institutions of learning — often because the actions of anti-Israel extremists cross the line into virulent antisemitism.
