BY KATELYN BUCHALTER
Jewish Student Union is the newest addition to the long list of clubs offered at OBHS. Along with other cultural clubs JSU offers a place for Jewish students and others to learn and experience Jewish Culture.
JSU offers an opportunity for students to connect with others who share an interest in Jewish culture and heritage. “I was inspired to create this club when my mom told me that May was Jewish Heritage Month, and no one knew,” President Lila Feldman added, “I then realized that there is no Jewish [club] in the school, and I wanted to create that environment.”
Other students followed in joining JSU to support the idea of creating a welcoming community. “I was inspired to join because I believe that it is important to represent and give Jewish students of Old Bridge High School a safe and fun community where they can feel at home,” Vice President Nadia Heslin stated.
JSU officers have ambitious plans for the club. “We want to go on some field trips to the Jewish museums in DC, Philly, and New York, along with having plenty of school-wide holiday celebrations every year,” added President Feldman, “We also want to end up building a sukkah for Sukkot, which will allow us to eat under the stars.”
The club has a lot in store in regard to holiday-based events and activities. “For Hanukkah, we would really like to do a latke bake off and make dreidels and learn how to play with them. For Purim, we want to have a costume party and games. Lastly, for Passover we would like to do a mock seder,” said Event Planner Isabella Lazerson.
The Jewish Student Union board actively wants to create an including environment for people to feel safe and welcomed. “I want to spread awareness of our culture and encourage acceptance of Jewish people,” Lazerson stated.
Along with creating a welcoming community, JSU members want to spread awareness and positivity related to Jewish culture. Secretary Jessica Orloff voiced, “People should join because they will learn more about the Jewish culture and religion. They will also have opportunities to celebrate the holidays as a club.”
Students interested in joining JSU can find information by following the club on instagram.
Posted on 10/24/23
Photos by Katelyn Buchalter
Knight Life 