At the beginning of the year, SHS students received an email regarding the swastika symbols found in bathrooms within school. Now, some students have taken it upon themselves to create a new club dedicated to spreading the compassion of the Jewish community. From raising money for Westchester Jewish Community Services (WJCS), to baking Jewish pastries, the Jewish Culture Club has its focus on fighting antisemitism. 

As one of SHS’s newer clubs, the JCC seems to already be well off with a clear objective at hand and ways to achieve it. “Whether it be defacing graffiti, bake sales, our partnership coming up with the UNICEF club, or our partnership with the WJCS, we are making strides,” said Peyton Lusk ’22, a co-president of the JCC. 

Even before their smooth start, the Jewish Culture Club had already planned what kind of atmosphere they wanted their club to have. The name “Jewish Culture Club” was not chosen to imitate the Jewish Community Center and potentially set up a few miscommunications, but rather there is a deeper meaning. Instead of a title like the “Jewish Club,” the founders of the club decided to add the “culture” aspect of it to proclaim that the club spreads the spirit of the Jewish culture to both Jews and non-Jews. “You most definitely do not have to be Jewish in order to join the club. Anyone can join; whatever you are, whatever believe in,” commented Aron Frishberg ’22, co-president of the JCC.

Last year, a Jewish club had been proposed, but the idea had been rejected. That is why, this year, it is a thrill to have a club like the JCC, a relaxed club that promotes positivity and inclusiveness. Despite all that has happened last year, the club is working its way up to getting more members and has plans for the future. “Other than coordination, I’d say that our club is actually doing pretty well right now. We have enough manpower, and we certainly have enough time,” remarked Spencer Krivo ’22, an officer of the JCC. 

As a start, next Tuesday, the JCC will be hosting a bake sale of hamantashen, Jewish pastries, outside the cafeteria. In addition, a snack drive will be held, however the time and place are yet to be determined. As of now, the club meets during 7th period on Mondays in room 352. A promising club with big ideas, the JCC is off to a great start.

THE JCC INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT: @jcc_shs