Jewish in Seattle Mag
SWU Staff
6/13/2019
So you’re going to college. Congrats! The years ahead are full of promise — and challenge. Here are some tips on how to handle a few common scenarios on campus, with help from StandWithUs.
What do you do…
If you find swastika graffiti on campus?
Take photos of all the evidence, and contact security and the school administration immediately. Demand that the administration condemn the hate speech. Raise awareness through social media, the school newspaper, or an event about what happened and about what the swastika truly represents.
If a student hands you a leaflet on “Israeli apartheid”?
Engage with the student, hear what they have to say, and if you feel comfortable, respond to their claims. If you don’t feel comfortable, thank them for their time and let them know that you’d like to engage with them further in the future. A regional StandWithUs campus coordinator can help prepare you for that conversation.
How do you…
Form alliances on campus?
Just because you’re involved in the Israel club or Hillel doesn’t mean you can’t be passionate about other topics and causes. Get involved with groups you identify with, and build personal relationships. If you genuinely care about them and the values you share, they will also learn from and care about you.
Stay calm in a stressful situation?
Do not let your emotions get the best of you. Address the other person with respect. Show them that you are willing to be civil and respectful even when discussing a controversial issue. If someone says something blatantly false, offensive, or racist, take it as an opportunity to educate them. The average student will most likely listen if you stay calm.
Read the article here.
