The following was written by the head of the Jewish Culture Club, Lucy H. ’18:

I’m sure many of you are exhausted by what feels like infinite conversations about this year’s election. I would apologize for prolonging the discussion, but those who feel frightened or affected by the outcome must not be silenced.  A Trump administration could be detrimental to the health, safety, and happiness of many Americans, including many members of the Hewitt community. Throughout his campaign and current “Thank You Tour”, President-Elect Donald Trump has incited widespread hate for several minorities including African Americans, Muslims, Jews, and women. Bigotry is being manifested ubiquitously as vandalization, verbal assault, and a variety of other hate crimes.

Growing up Jewish and female in New York City, I am fortunate to be shielded from oppression for my gender or religion. At Hewitt, I have always felt comfortable as a young woman and a Jew. Learning about the history of anti-Semitism and the Holocaust has almost seemed like fiction because it has never been a factor in my life. However, the recent, unorthodox election has rid me of this ignorance. Donald Trump and his hateful words have given the Neo-Nazi Party and the “alt-right” a platform to voice their resentment for Jews, Blacks, Muslims, women, and immigrants. Despite the anger spurring throughout the nation, the Hewitt community must diverge from this path and continue to respect diversity and individuality unconditionally. As a group of unique, young women, we must voice our opposition proudly and fight for the rights of ourselves and others under attack.

The Jewish Culture Club is continuously discussing these issues and invites anyone and everyone to please join us in these uncomfortable and necessary conversations. We stand in solidarity with other minority groups who feel unsafe in this current social climate and hope to bring more light to this topic within the Hewitt community.  

Leave a Reply