Project Summary

Several Jewish students at the University of Kentucky describe a shared experience of navigating their identities in a predominantly non-Jewish environment, shaped significantly by the events of October 7th, 2023. Raised in Jewish households across the U.S.—from Louisville to Skokie to Cleveland—they came to UK with varied backgrounds, but all highlight the importance of Hillel, Jewish Studies programs, and cultural organizations in providing a sense of belonging. Many express frustration over campus-wide ignorance or silence surrounding the conflict in Israel and Gaza. Across these accounts, there is a common call for greater awareness, dialogue, and institutional support to foster a safer and more informed campus climate for Jewish students.