Our Stories Matter

Eden Yadegar, a student leader at Columbia University, offers a glimpse into her fight against antisemitism and her testimony before Congress. Don’t miss her insights on activism, identity, and hope. Full episode drops Thursday, May 15.

Adela Cojab Moadeb, a Mexican-Jewish student activist and NYU graduate, shares her courageous journey of standing up against antisemitism and radicalism on college campuses—long before October 7th. In this episode, Adela reflects on her decision to sue her university, her experiences navigating intersectional identities, and her commitment to advocating for marginalized communities. She discusses the mental health impact of hate speech on Jewish students, the importance of interfaith solidarity, and the need for inclusive, safe spaces. Having spoken on platforms like CNN, Fox News, and MSNBC, Adela emphasizes resilience, unity, and the power of speaking out. Her story is one of strength, activism, and the bravery to lead even when standing alone.

Adela Cojab shares her powerful journey of speaking out against antisemitism and radicalism on college campuses—long before October 7th. Hear a preview of her courageous activism and why her voice matters now more than ever. Full episode drops Thursday, May 8.

This season on Our Stories Matter, we’re confronting the mental health crisis and rising radicalization on college campuses. Students, survivors, and changemakers share powerful stories of resilience, resistance, and the courage to speak out in the face of hate.

Season 6 premieres May 8th.

Lucy Aharish, an Arab-Israeli journalist, news anchor, television host, and mother, discusses how the events of October 7th have affected her personally and professionally. Aharish opens up with her struggles of reporting on atrocious, antisemtic acts. In addition, Aharish emphasizes the importance of education and critical thinking when it comes to engaging in meaningful discourse. She also talks about how it is her duty, as a journalist and civilian, to criticize her government and fight for her country. Lastly, she speaks to the uncertainties of life during a time of war and her struggles with learning how to rebuild a life full of hope. Aharish wonders, how do we regain our compassion, and how, if ever, will we return to normal life? 

NBA player and mental health advocate Michael Sweetney and nonprofit leader Eric M. Rubin who is the Global Ambassador for the Maccabi World Union and the Executive Director of Project Max, demonstrate how taking action on dismantling hate is central to their healing. Sweetney, who is coaching at Yeshiva University, shifted the focus on his NBA career to mental health advocacy, and is using his platform to deliver wellness presentations focusing on inclusivity and mental well-being. Rubin, a seasoned executive, leverages sports diplomacy to combat antisemitism and racism, engaging with global organizations to foster unity and tolerance. Both individuals highlight how their efforts to fight hate not only support others, but also contribute to their own healing and growth. Their journeys underscore the transformative impact of using sports and advocacy to promote unity and dismantle hate. 

Amit Halpern Navigating a normal teenage life while also living through multiple wars, Amit Halpern describes how he is managing under such extreme circumstances. Demonstrating innate strength and resilience, he describes what it has been like to be alive through four wars. In addition, Halpern speaks to feeling safer in his identity while in Israel, even with an ongoing war, than he would in any other country, especially the United States due to the rampant anti-Semitism. Lastly, Halpern discusses the effects of generational trauma and how this has affected his upbringing.