IU Hillel hosted its annual Israelpalooza on Wednesday, April, 10. Despite the current conflict in the Middle East, the Jewish student and faculty population at IU believe this event is more important to have now more than.

IU Hillel Rabbi and executive director, Sue Silberberg stressed the utmost importance of educating all students on the subject matter to raise understanding of how and why the situation is escalating. “We have faced countless antisemitism and hatred on campuses here, so it’s more important than ever to educate students about Israel,” noted Rabbi Sue.

Decorated with Israeli flags and Israeli music blasting from speakers, Israelpalooza offered free Israeli-based foods cooked by Hillel staff. Student representatives of other Israeli-based organizations within IU Hillel were there spreading the word about their missions as well.

The event was free to attend, allowing students to come and go, lasting from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Just over a week ago, IU Chabad, another IU Jewish hub for students, hosted its annual Mega Shabbat. Much like Israelpalooza, Mega Shabbat is another event that takes place on the Jewish Sabbath once a year where the Jewish Hoosier community comes together to celebrate their Jewish Pride.

Mega Shabbat had several alumni attend as guest speakers and an abundance of food and mocktails for all student attendees. The alumni guest speakers all stated how critical it is to never let hatred get in the way of faith nor who someone is.

IU Chabad Rabbi Levi noted how the event had a maximum capacity of 1000 people.

Along with many universities nationwide, IU has experienced a drastic rise in hatred and acts of antisemitism on campus.

Despite the fear stemming from the conflict, the Jewish Hoosier community is committed to rising above it.