Fortified against a wave of globally-driven antisemitism, an inclusive and powerful space is present at Boulder High: Jewish Student Connection. Every other Thursday, Jewish and non-Jewish students alike meet to learn about Judaism, culture, and the impacts of antisemitism.
JSC has powerful student leadership including Mads Cass, ‘27. Cass states, “Our goal of JSC is to make an inclusive space for everyone, Jewish or not, to feel a sense of community and learn about our beautiful culture. We ultimately aim to educate those who are less educated about Judaism so they live more inclusive lives and then create a space for our Jewish students to feel safe.”
JSC connects with the nonprofit Jewish Colorado to provide information, support, and shinshinim representatives. Shinshinim are Jewish young adults who graduated high school in Israel and take a gap year to serve as cultural and educational ambassadors in Jewish spaces globally. JSC’s unique connection with Jewish Colorado allows these representatives to come and create unique bonds with students, learning from each other and connecting across the commonality of Jewish culture.
Mr. Hesse, the sponsor, says that his favorite part of the club is the student leadership. “They plan and teach all of our lessons and bring the ruach [spirit in Hebrew]. I am really proud of them.”
The unfortunate and startling truth of the space is the continual presence of antisemitism; amid a nuanced global issue, some students feel unsure and unsafe advertising their Jewish identity. Hesse states, “students have told me they’ve stopped wearing their Star of David necklaces because they don’t feel safe. Whether it’s swastika graffiti on desks or kids being bullied on social media, it’s always there in the background.” Cass agreed, saying that she has “unfortunately witnessed a shocking amount of antisemitism at BHS. It is genuinely heartbreaking to me. It just makes me more motivated to implement a change of culture in the school.” Part of the mission for JSC is to educate students who don’t have extensive knowledge on Judaism, centering around Jewish activism and trying to change the culture of hate.
One of the most striking parts of JSC is the incredible community. Even with antisemitic attitudes, members of the club emphasize the kind, genuine, and inclusive space. You don’t have to practice Judaism to attend the club, but you absolutely have to be respectful and willing to learn. Cass states that, “JSC really makes me feel like I have a place in the school.” JSC has a number of educational opportunities and fun parties planned this year to further educate the student body and celebrate culture. “Showing Jewish joy is the best way to teach others that their hate doesn’t get to us,” says Cass. “We will continue to stick together as a community.” Mr. Hesse responds to antisemitism with a similar sentiment, saying that, “The Jewish people have been dealing with these things for a long time—and we are resilient.”
