I feel at home at a school that unequivocally, unreservedly stands up to and against hate’s many faces, most recently the face of antisemitism.

I imagine many of us have found it difficult to balance the anger evoked by last Saturday’s violent act of antisemitism and sadness for the victims, their loved ones, and a grieving community. This past Wednesday, students gathered in the rose garden to stand in solidarity against hate and to honor the 11 human beings who lost their lives.

Robbie Shaff ’18, a senior active in his Jewish community, felt like he “ha[d] to do something to make sure the victims’ humanity was not lost in the national conversation around politics and policy.” Thus, as president of the Jewish Heritage Club, Robbie invited students to the rose garden to witness a reading of the Mourner’s Kaddish and the lighting of 11 candles. Robbie eulogized each of the victims as he read their names. People were invited to come forward to share thoughts and feelings.

I found it to be a dignified, powerful, and beautiful moment. If you were not there, I encourage you to find someone who was and ask that person about it.