The seventh night of Chanukah was a shining moment for Emet Outreach, when over 100 Emet Leaders Fellowship students and alumni gathered for a celebration at the Young Israel of Kew Gardens Hills. While Emet’s annual Chanukah parties are always a highlight, this event was especially meaningful, since the theme was in honor of Israel. There was a feeling of comfort and unity among the participants who were excited to share joy at a time of increased anti-Semitism on campus. “The party was beautiful, because we focused on making the students happy. We wanted to give them a night to celebrate and feel connected, after they have experienced so much hate on campus. It was all about them,” said Sara B., Emet Program Director. “It was amazing that even though it was finals week, everyone came and stayed late. This was probably the best party we’ve ever had.”
When they first arrived, participants enjoyed connecting with friends over a buffet dinner. Rabbi Akiva Rutenberg, Emet Co-Founder and Director, and Rabbi Reuven Kigel, Campus Director, opened the night with moving thoughts about Israel and the miracle of Chanukah.
All eyes were on Aviel Seltzer, president of the Queens College Emet Student Association (ESA), who lit the menorah. Everyone joined together to sing HaNeiros Halalu and Maoz Tzur. The party really got underway with a captivating performance from Emet’s own Shlomo Mash. Shlomo added incredible ruach with heartfelt renditions of songs like HaTikvah, Hashem Melech, and Acheinu. DJ Reuven Dan, a college student, energized the crowd with his tunes, and the dancing was exhilarating. The evening also featured an exciting raffle, with prizes ranging from inspirational s’farim to fabulous electronics.
“It was so awesome to celebrate together with our students. The dance floor was lit up for hours. Guys danced with the rabbis. Girls danced with the female staff. There was a ton of energy and I felt like I was dancing with my brothers, celebrating Chanukah together,” Rabbi Ari Hertz, Campus Mekarev, explained. “I also got the impression that the students really appreciated that Emet made this party for them at a time when things have been so challenging on campus. They felt understood and supported.”
