Caption top photo: Heels for Israel at the University of North Carolina (courtesy of David McCrudden)
Just a few days into the new year 5785, the Jewish and pro-Israel communities took the time to observe the one-year anniversary of the horrific attacks against Israel on October 7th, 2023.
While Israel’s enemies would like us to remain silent, some brave students chose not to comply. They posted 1200 flags, each representing a victim from that terrible day. They stood proudly with Israel, educating other students and passersby about the attacks on Israel and the hostages taken by Hamas. They stayed positive. NCCI applauds their courage. They inspire us all.
Heels for Israel at the University of North Carolina
Heels for Israel posted their field of flags and set up a table to provide information and solidarity pins/stickers to hundreds of students and faculty. Heels President Evan Biller, and Treasurer David McCrudden, are grateful to UNC for upholding free speech and ensuring the safety and dignity of the memorial. They especially thank Chabad and the Zeta Beta Tau chapter at UNC for partnering with them, and Young America’s Foundation for providing the flags and materials.
They are also grateful to UNC Police Sergeant Turner and Chief James, Associate Vice Chancellor Kemp, Provost Clemmons and Chancellor Roberts for ensuring the safety of all participants, and for preventing pro-Hamas radicals from denigrating campus.
Many people do not know that victims of the October 7th massacre came from many countries around the world, including America, Britain, Ukraine and others. The Duke chapter of Students Supporting Israel (SSI) placed a flag for each victim, representing their country of origin. Alexandra Ahdoot, President of the Duke chapter of Students Supporting Israel, explains that the display was courtesy of a collaboration between SSI, End Jew Hatred, and Passages, a Christian organization.
SSI’s programming events were well attended. The Jewish community focused on spreading love and light on campus through tabling with Chabad all day.
Heels for Israel at the University of North Carolina
Duke University Students Supporting Israel
Duke University Students Supporting Israel – A flag for each October 7th, 2023 victim
