Among the vast number of student-led clubs in Marriotts Ridge High School, one particular organization has resurfaced within the student body. Ever since the Jewish Student Union’s sponsor retired in the 22-23 school year, the lack of a Jewish-based club has been evident. What should students expect now? Thankfully, the Jewish Student Union, or JSU, has been reestablished by co-founders Noah Gettleman and me to continue the original club’s true purpose: to uplift the Jewish students of MRHS.
When questioned about the club, some wonder about the reason to join it, and whether it is beneficial to the student community.
“[Students should join the club] because they get to engage with people who have the same culture as you and get to meet people who share similar beliefs and ideas with you,” commented freshman Avery Cohen.
Considering the minority of Jewish Students in MRHS, some who may be feeling lost in Marriotts Ridge without a way to connect with others in a cultural manner, now have the ability to join JSU and form a community with other peers.
What about students who are not Jewish who may not have the ability to easily connect with others, or simply want to have fun? Well, JSU is in fact inclusive to all students. Jewish or not, all are welcome to come together to learn about the culture of Judaism.
Cohen also noted that non-Jewish students should still participate in the club since students will, “gain a new perspective on another religion,” and, “be more culturally diverse in their knowledge.”
Diving into the importance of the establishment of JSU, the Social Media Manager and junior Gavin Keenan stated why the club matters.
“People don’t support the Jewish community as much as people should, so for our high school to have a club and have everyone come together is a good thing, especially with the increase of Jewish hate,” stated Keenan.
After considering that the club should exist and be reestablished, some students now wonder what activities to expect in the current and upcoming years.
“JSU will host a wide variety of events from holiday celebrations to just fun cooking projects, and is going to collaborate with other JSU schools as well,” claimed junior Noah Gettleman.
Gettleman, current president of the club, encourages students to join JSU not just for the culture, but for the fun events to participate in. JSU stresses on the fun aspects of the club, such as the successful recent collaboration with Atholton’s JSU. Students came together to have a late celebration of the Jewish Holiday, Purim, by baking Hamantaschen cookies. The event was a great start to introduce the club to both MRHS and other schools through a shared baking experience.
To support the reestablished club, the board and current members encourage others to interact with the JSU Instagram, come to meetings and bring spirit and joy along with them. JSU is excited to welcome all MRHS students to create a safe and fun environment in support of the Jewish community while creating a strong, bonded student community.