When challenging times threatened to divide, JLIC at Columbia University and Barnard College created a powerful moment of unity. Led by Rav Elie and Tamar Buechler, Friendsgiving emerged as a testament to resilience, community, and hope.
This year, on Sunday November 24th, marked the second annual Friendsgiving, an event born from the tumultuous landscape of campus life following the events of October 7th, 2023 and the rise of antisemitism on campus. What began as a response to difficult circumstances transformed into a meaningful celebration of togetherness and gratitude.
Rav Elie reflected on the significance of the event: “Friendsgiving is more than just a meal – it’s a powerful affirmation of Jewish community and resilience. In challenging times, we wanted to create a space where our students could come together, find joy, express gratitude, and support one another. Seeing over a hundred students actively participating, sharing stories, and creating moments of connection reminds us that our community’s strength lies not just in facing challenges, but in our ability to celebrate and uplift each other.”
The evening became a collaborative masterpiece, with students taking active roles in bringing the event to life. They worked diligently to set up the space, curate the music, and create a vibrant gratitude wall adorned with colorful post-it notes of appreciation. A student-delivered divrei Torah added depth and personal meaning to the gathering.
The event welcomed over 100 students, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere that transcended the challenges of the past year. More than just a dinner, Friendsgiving became a powerful statement of community and connection.
The gratitude wall stood as a powerful symbol of the evening’s spirit – a visual representation of the positive moments, relationships, and experiences that students cherished. It served as a reminder that even in difficult times, there is always something to be thankful for.
Rav Elie and Tamar Buechler’s vision of creating a positive and fun environment clearly resonated with the students. By transforming a traditional holiday into a meaningful Jewish community experience, they provided a space for healing, connection, and celebration.
Friendsgiving was more than an event – it was a declaration. It demonstrated that community, joy, and gratitude can flourish even in the face of adversity. As students gathered around the table, they weren’t just sharing a meal; they were rebuilding, supporting, and uplifting each other.
Here’s to Friendsgiving – a tradition of hope, resilience, and community.
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