As Passover got closer this year, the Jewish students at SUNY Cortland felt caught between the happy anticipation of the holiday and the sadness of being separated from their family, especially in this time where a lot of our families know someone who is fighting in Israel. For many who usually celebrate Passover at home, the thought of losing out on cherished traditions was disheartening. Luckily we were able to all join together for a sense of comfort and home for the Passover Seder hosted by the Hillel organization at SUNY Cortland.
Gathered around tables decked with holiday symbols, students and staff alike found comfort and connection in the Seder’s traditional customs. It was so nice to be surrounded by those who celebrate and to be able to talk about our usual experiences with Passover, talking about whether or not we keep Kosher, our family backgrounds, and whether or not we know anyone fighting in Israel. The centerpiece of the event was the Seder plate, which was filled with symbolic foods that represent the Israelites’ journey from slavery to freedom. Each item on the plate, from the bitter herbs to the sweet haroset, had a deep connection to Passover history and traditions.
Guided by the timeless words of the Haggadah, everyone dove into the Exodus narrative, taking a moment to relate it to their own lives. We each were designated a reading portion and took turns reciting. It was a special night, made even more so by the presence of Dr. Bitterbaum, SUNY Cortland’s respected president. His attendance was so special to the university’s commitment to embracing diversity and fostering a sense of home and comfort for the schools Jewish community and students.
The air was filled with the sweet melodies of traditional songs, instantly transporting us back to the warmth of our family Seders. As we dug into our plates piled high with mouthwatering dishes such as Kugel, the aroma of Passover classics filled the room, drawing approving smiles and happiness among all students and staff who attended.
But amidst the delicious food and familiar tunes, it was finally time for the search of the afikomen. Students, staff, and even local families who came all eagerly hunt for the hidden matzah, laughter bubbling up and anticipation mounting. This was a pure joy. It was a moment that brought generations together, weaving bonds of community stronger than mere proximity could ever achieve.
In these turbulent times, the Passover Seder at SUNY Cortland Hillel served as a poignant reminder of tradition’s enduring power and the resilience of community. For Jewish students grappling with questions of identity and belonging, events like these provide a haven of acceptance and understanding, proving the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.