How My High School Chose Solidarity Over Silence

By: Chella Safra

Since October 7th, the media has been dominated by news reporting anti-semitic incidents in high schools and on college campuses. Yet, I share a more hopeful story, one that diverges from this commonality; this story shines a light on the unwavering support I have received from my secular high school on the Upper West Side.  

As a Jewish student who proudly supports Israel, I was initially frightened that my school might respond to the atrocities on October 7th with “neutrality”. Amidst today’s ‘woke’ culture and anti-Israel sentiment, I hoped my school would rise above what is so black and white. Luckily, I woke up on October 8th to an email from my school reading, “We stand in solidarity with Israel”. Not only did the administration stand up for their Jewish students, but they stood up for humanity. 

Since then, my high school has welcomed numerous speakers hosted by our About Israel club-- students and teachers alike have attended these events in overwhelming numbers. Additionally, an Israeli flag is hanging up in our student lounge as a symbol of unity and solidarity for Jewish students. Several members of our school community recently participated in the walkout on January 18th at 10:07 a.m. to demand the release of the hostages. Looking ahead, there will be an Assembly commemorating International Holocaust Remembrance Day. 

This experience has reminded me that we are not alone. We will stand up against injustice and bigotry with our non-Jewish friends and eradicate evil, once and for all.