Some may know our Jewish Student Connections club from their tirade of Instagram followings proceeding the renewal of the club after a year of limited attendance. The club seeks to nurture understanding of Jewish tradition and culture and opens its doors to both Jewish and non-Jewish students every Wednesday after school in Mr. Garner’s room.
At their Wednesday meeting this week, the group had a special celebration for Hanukkah. Hanukkah, an eight-night celebration, is often incorrectly deemed the “Jewish Christmas”. In actuality, the holiday doesn’t hold major religious significance, but the cultural value is a perfect excuse to eat latkes and spend time with loved ones.
The club offered a special opportunity for non-Jews to celebrate Hanukkah, considering the religion’s traditionally closed nature. Non-Jews are allowed to celebrate Jewish holidays when invited, but to celebrate a Jewish holiday on one’s own when not a follower of the religion is considered extremely offensive. Thus, bringing a Hanukkah celebration to a school gives non-Jews the opportunity to experience the celebration without potentially overstepping religious boundaries.
Outside on the front lawn, an intense dreidel tournament took place. Hanukkah-themed foods like dreidel candies and gelt were devoured by participants and onlookers alike.
As the story of Hanukkah was read aloud, the group listened intently, reflecting on the narrative being told.
“Hanukkah is really important because it’s a way to connect with our ancestors and to all be one as The Jewish People,” said club president Deanna Sokol. “It’s also an important way to remember how we have always faced antisemitism and how we always overcome it and how we will continue to overcome it.”
As the Hanukkah season continues, the Jewish group members will celebrate independently. But, this small gathering stood to represent a collective of people dedicated to one another, an often forgotten concept that we can all stand to learn from.