Everyone has that one item in their life that makes them feel protected, like everything will be okay. For some it’s their childhood blanket or their lucky socks; for others, like the Jewish students at the University of Kansas, it’s their mezuzot.
As students returned to campus earlier this month, they encountered so much uncertainty and doubt. Will their classes happen in person? Will they manage to succeed this semester while needing to remain socially distanced from their friends and peers?
The current reality presents the unique challenge that Jewish gatherings are limited, and students can easily feel disconnected. With this in mind, KU Chabad has launched a unique campaign to bring the Jewish experience to their homes and hearts with a “Meaningful Mezuzah Moment.”
As it began its 15th year on campus this month, Chabad kicked off its annual Mezuzah Campaign. Initially instituted by the Lubavitcher Rebbe, the aim of the campaign is to ensure that every Jewish home has a kosher mezuzah.
During the first few weeks of the new school year, students are frequently getting in touch with the rabbi or his wife to get their own mezuzah. Students reach out because they are used to having a mezuzah at home or because they are aware of the protection that the mezuzah provides. To make it easier, all they need to do is text the word “mezuzah” to Chabad’s new text line (785-264-4477) and their holy scroll is on the way.
As sophomore Ethan Strauss described it, “It reminds me about my Jewish identity, and I love seeing it every day. It helps me remember that I am being protected from above, especially during these uncertain times.”
Sadly, colleges and universities have now become the frontlines in the fight against extremism and anti-Semitism. Many college campuses are rampant with anti-Semitism and hate. Placing mezuzot proudly on the doorposts in the dormitories and across the college town, is a great way to build a stronger sense of Jewish pride and identity and maintain a vibrant Jewish presence on campus.
“When Rabbi came for my mezuzah it was the first Jewish moment I had since March. I felt like it brought me back in again! Now when I walk up to my room and I see the mezuzah hanging it makes me feel proud to be a Jew. It’s my way of telling the world who I am and that I’m proud of who I am,” KU Junior Corey Kahnman explained.
Chabad believes that by placing the mezuzah at the threshold of these homes, it will help the students remember who they are, and that we all take our identity with us wherever we may go. This campaign will help secure strong Jewish leaders and a brighter Jewish future for tomorrow. Chabad is seeking support for this campaign and invites the entire community to pitch in by sponsoring a mezuzah for a college student for $30 by going to www.JewishKU.com/donate.
If you have a child or a friend at KU whose child needs a mezuzah on their dorm room, apartment or house, don’t hesitate to contact Chabad at KU for details about the Mezuzah Campaign or reserve one for them online at www.JewishKU.com.