On Thursday, Hillel at Florida Atlantic University hosted “Spread Cream Cheese, Not Hate,” the organization’s annual event that aims to fight antisemitism on campus by having students sign their official pledge, which encourages students to engage in conversation about Judaism and reject negative or hateful messages.

The initiative was launched by the University of Florida’s Hillel chapter in 2020 and has since spread to multiple universities statewide. This year, FAU Hillel set up stations in the breezeway and on the Boca Raton campus housing lawn, handing out free bagels with cream cheese and merchandise such as buttons, stickers, and wristbands. 

Jessica Rykus, associate director at Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach, shared her hopes of reaching this year’s goal of 1,000 signatures. “A lot of what we do is not just signing a piece of paper, it’s how we follow up and how we create allyship and educate properly so students know what to say, how to say, and when to say,” said Rykus. 

According to Hannah Schorr, springboard fellow of Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach, the organization has received around 717 signatures so far; however, more are still coming in from social media.

Richie Edwards, a junior at FAU, said he’s “all for” FAU Hillel’s mission, after stopping at the station on the breezeway and reading the pledge, even though he himself is not Jewish.

“They were really nice, made me feel welcome,” said Edwards. 

The event was also supported by 11 organizations stated in the official pledge. 

May Rojas, a candidate for Boca Raton campus governor, showed up to support the event and help.

“On a personal level, I love the people at Hillel,” said Rojas. “On a second level, as a Quaker, we support community service, love, and friendship.” 

Isaiah Sewell is a Staff Writer for the University Press. For information regarding this or other stories, email [email protected].