Dear Friends,

As we approach Rosh Hashanah, a time of renewal, reflection, and hope, I extend heartfelt wishes for a sweet and healthy new year.
 
As I write to you, I am conflicted. I am trying to hold the joy of Rosh Hashanah while at the same time my heart is heavy with worry and sadness at the continued horrific news coming from Israel – the terrorist attacks in Jaffa and Iran’s unprecedented ballistic missile attack targeting all of Israel – as if our hearts were not filled with enough grief as we approach the one-year anniversary of October 7. We continue to pray for the Israelis killed, injured, and traumatized, and for the safe return of the hostages. Here at home, we must also prepare for the year ahead.
 
Jewish Federation of Orange County remains focused on ensuring that Jewish students on local campuses can thrive in safe and supportive environments. We understand that a new academic year brings excitement, and can also raise concerns about the climate for Jewish students at local colleges and universities as well as children in K-12 schooling.
 
Updates on Campus Guidelines and Safety Efforts
We commend the efforts of our campus partners Chabad on Campus and OC Hillel for the important and meaningful work they have done to ensure Jewish students feel safe and have a place to go for support. Along with them, we have been working diligently to ensure a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for Jewish students at UC Irvine, Chapman University, and Cal State Fullerton. These efforts are part of our broader commitment to combating antisemitism and fostering a sense of belonging across local campuses. Each university has recently updated its policies (linked above) regarding student conduct, and we encourage community members to familiarize themselves with these new guidelines and procedures.
 
Our Continued Commitment to Combat Antisemitism in K-12 Schooling
As we celebrate this season of reflection, we remain steadfast in our commitment to safeguarding the well-being of Jewish students in K-12 schools. We will continue to develop our Student to Student program, engaging more teen ambassadors and reaching more students and teachers. We will continue to offer our Countering Hate summit, to provide leaders in education, government, and law enforcement with the skills and tools to combat antisemitism. Federation’s Rose Project will remain vigilant in its advocacy for stronger protections for our kids. If you or someone you know encounters an issue on campus, please do not hesitate to reach out and report the incident. We are here to offer resources and assistance to ensure every student feels safe, supported, and able to focus on their studies.
 
As we gather with family and friends to celebrate Rosh Hashanah, may we be reminded of the strength and resilience of our community, and the importance of supporting one another in both joyful and challenging times.
 
 L’shanah tovah u'metukah,