Newly established this 2023-24 school year is the Jewish Student Union (JSU). This club comprises club advisors Mr. Southerland and Mrs. Levin. The officers for this club include President Eli Gartenberg, Vice President Jordan Horwitz, and Publicity Officer Drew Horwitz.
This club originated because of antisemitism that was seen around the community by the President, Eli Gartenberg. He had decided that a club like JSU would be a good addition to Millbrook. JSU is an organization with hundreds of clubs around the country. Gartenberg said, “I reached out to some contacts and got in touch with Nancy Alexander, the NC coordinator for JSU, and it all hit off from there.”
The National Jewish Student Union‘s mission is to create a place where students feel understood and heard. The club originated in Los Angeles in 2002 and grew at an exponential rate, creating a wonderful space for students nationwide.
Jordan Horwitz said, “My favorite part of being an officer is getting to educate students on Jewish history and meeting new people. JSU is all about learning as well as gaining new relationships which I love doing as an officer!”
There have been two meetings to plan and an official meeting to celebrate Hanukkah. All meetings are intended to be held on the first Wednesday of every month in and all are welcome. Meetings are a calm community encouraging peace between interactions.
Advisor Mr. Southerland said, “Hate speech and action has no place on our campus or in our lives. Antisemitism is on the rise, in large and small ways and, instead of being bystanders, we all can take action and as Gandhi stated, ‘be the change we wish to see in the world.’”
The officers agree people should know that everyone is welcome to the club. Gartenberg said, “Even if you are half Jewish, not practicing, or not Jewish at all, you are MORE than welcome to attend.”
