In the heart of Washington D.C., the Israel on Campus Coalition’s National Leadership Summit recently brought together passionate advocates for Israel, including students, politicians, and community leaders. Among them was Shoshana Aufzien, a 19-year-old Jewish student at Barnard College, who has bravely faced the rising tide of antisemitism on college campuses.
On May 7, while preparing for her finals in Columbia University’s Butler Library, Aufzien found herself in the midst of an anti-Israel protest that disrupted her study session. Armed with her phone, she recorded the chaos as demonstrators shouted chants and refused to comply with safety officers’ requests to leave. This incident was not an isolated one; it was part of a larger trend of protests against Israel that Aufzien witnessed during her freshman year.
The protests at Columbia University have gained significant attention, particularly following the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attacks in Israel. Aufzien, who was in Jerusalem during the attacks, described the harrowing experience of hearing sirens and seeking shelter. She poignantly remarked, “I think every Jew in the diaspora knows someone who was injured, killed, or otherwise impacted by October 7. When one person grieves, the entire country grieves.”
Despite the challenges she faced, Aufzien remains undeterred in her commitment to advocate for Israel. “I don’t think antisemitism should ever be a deterrent,” she told The Christian Post. “If you acquiesce to the demands of antisemites, that’s the worst approach.” Her determination is palpable as she emphasizes the importance of engaging in dialogue with those who hold differing views.
The National Leadership Summit featured influential speakers, including former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, who addressed the students on the importance of understanding Israel and the Middle Eastern dynamics. Aufzien serves as the public affairs co-chair of Columbia Aryeh, a pro-Israel student organization that fosters connections between students and Israel through academic and philanthropic initiatives.
However, the environment on campus can be daunting. Aufzien has experienced harassment due to her pro-Israel stance, including being doxxed and ostracized by classmates. She recounted an incident where anti-Israel activists disrupted a class taught by an Israeli professor, distributing flyers that she described as reminiscent of Nazi-era propaganda. “It takes a toll on your psyche,” she admitted, reflecting on the emotional impact of her experiences.
The recent agreement between Columbia University and the U.S. government aims to address antisemitism on campus, with the university agreeing to pay $200 million to settle claims of discriminatory practices. While Aufzien views this as a positive step, she acknowledges that more work is needed to ensure a safe environment for Jewish students. “I’m cautiously optimistic,” she said, stressing that the university’s initial response to antisemitism was inadequate.
In her ongoing efforts to advocate for Israel, Aufzien emphasizes the importance of Jewish students participating in institutions where antisemitism exists. “You have to have a foot in the door,” she argues, highlighting the need for productive debates and discussions.
As she continues her studies at Barnard College, Aufzien remains committed to her cause, volunteering at Israeli military bases and engaging with her peers. Her journey reflects the resilience and determination of many young Jewish students today, who are standing up against antisemitism and advocating for their beliefs in the face of adversity.
In a world where the narrative surrounding Israel is often skewed, voices like Aufzien’s are crucial. They remind us of the importance of dialogue, understanding, and standing firm in one’s beliefs. As we look toward the future, it is clear that the fight against antisemitism and for a fair representation of Israel on college campuses is far from over, but with dedicated advocates like Aufzien, there is hope for meaningful change.
For more insights into the challenges faced by Jewish students on campuses and the ongoing efforts to combat antisemitism, consider visiting resources like the Anti-Defamation League or StandWithUs, organizations dedicated to fighting hate and promoting understanding.