In Response to Anti-Semitism
The Counseling Center would like to acknowledge the impact of the hostage situation at Congregation Beth Israel in Colleyville, Texas this weekend. This is yet another act of violence and oppression toward the Jewish community in our country and around the world. Though we are grateful that the four hostages were able to escape, our thoughts are with them now as they cope with the trauma of armed captivity on top of historical persecution. Our thoughts are also with the UIC Jewish community that might be directly or indirectly impacted by this situation.
We would like to acknowledge that this violence against the Jewish community could bring up a range of emotions such as fear for the safety of ourselves or loved ones, anger at ongoing Anti-Semitism, and grief - all of which are valid. This may also activate past memories of oppression for some of us or create worries and concerns about safety. We hope you are able to turn to that which brings you feelings of comfort, community, and support.
We would like to call on each other to prevent such hate crimes from happening in our communities and to engage in bystander intervention. We at the Counseling Center in particular pledge to offer you a safe space to process your authentic reactions. If you need a place to talk, we invite you to join our Space for Healing and Support, a drop-in group that meets weekly via Zoom. You may also call the Counseling Center at 312-996-3490 to schedule an appointment, and we hope the resources below can also provide stability and reassurance during this time.
Anti-Defamation League
Bystander Intervention
How to Support Your Jewish Friends During the Wave of Anti-Semitism
Jewish Community Relations Council
Recovering Emotionally from Disaster
Report an Anti-Semitic Bias or Discriminatory Incident
Resources and Tools for Addressing Anti-Semitism, Intolerance, and Bias
Talking to Children About Hate-Crimes and Anti-Semitism
What to Do If You Are a Victim of a Hate Crime
UIC/Chicagoland Groups
Religious Workers Association at UIC
Rohr Chabad House at UIC
Metro Chicago Hillel at UIC
Temple Beth Israel - Skokie