To the Editor:
From the recent article "The Arab-Israeli conflict on campuses" (Oct. 4), one might infer that Brown/RISD Hillel functions purely as a religious organization. Hillel's Executive Board wanted to take this opportunity to clarify Hillel's purposes and goals on campus.
While Hillel maintains itself as the center of Jewish religious life through Shabbat and holiday celebrations, it furthermore encompasses all facets of Jewish life on campus. The article highlights the political groups of Hillel, Brown Students for Israel and Puzzle Peace. In addition to these, Hillel is also a venue for arts and culture: Alef Beats, the Jewish coed a cappella group; Yarmulkazi, the klezmer band; Hillel Gallery Project and the Jewish Cooking Club. We explore issues of Jewish identity through Queer Hillel and other initiatives, as well as delve into intellectual development through Jewish secular and religious educational activities. We plan social events, such as bagel brunches and apple picking, and also serve as a center for social justice and community service. Learning about or providing feedback on Hillel and its current and future programming is encouraged.
Cayla Saret '12
Brown/RISD Hillel Vice President of Campus Relations
Oct. 4
