L’Dor V’Dor 2025

Tzedek/Justice Celebrated at L’Dor V’Dor 2025

On Sunday, a record-breaking 260 guests gathered in the stunning Scott’s Seafood Ballroom, perched atop the Seventh Floor of the Fourth Street Garage in San Jose, to celebrate Hillel of Silicon Valley’s annual L’Dor V’Dor event. This year’s event was particularly special, as our guests came from all over the Bay Area representing various Jewish communities. Many guests shared how meaningful it was to reconnect with people they had not seen in years, making this evening not only a celebration of Hillel’s impact but also a powerful moment of community reunion. This wider engagement set this year apart from past events, reinforcing the importance of standing together in these challenging times. The evening was filled with inspiration, unity, and a shared commitment to Tzedek—justice, the guiding theme of this year’s gathering.

We were honored to recognize Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen and De Anza Jewish Student Union President Dan Gotesdyner for their unwavering leadership in combating antisemitism and fostering a safer, more inclusive community. Their dedication reflects the very essence of Tzedek, reminding us that justice is not just an ideal, but a call to action.

A Community Standing Together

In her moving address, Executive Director Sarita Bronstein set the tone for the evening, powerfully articulating why Hillel’s mission is more critical than ever:

“Jewish life on college campuses has dominated the news since October 7. As members of the Hillel team, we don’t just read these headlines—we live them. Year after year, I have sounded the alarm about rising antisemitism on our campuses—whether in plain sight or hidden behind classroom doors. After October 7, Jew-haters didn’t just whisper their views—they proudly and publicly celebrated terror. Tragically, that hatred has only grown more brazen, shifting from isolated incidents to institutionalized hostility.”

She emphasized that Hillel of Silicon Valley is not standing idly by:

“In the face of this relentless incitement against the Jewish community, we have built something remarkable—a thriving, resilient, and proud Jewish community on campus.”

A Call to Action

In a powerful keynote discussion, Columbia University professor Shai Davidai joined board member Mike Gilfix to delve into the events that have unfolded on college campuses since October 7. Professor Davidai spoke candidly about his battle against antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment in academia, offering a compelling perspective on the importance of standing up for truth, even in the face of adversity.

The evening’s program was bookended by the extraordinary talent of Shanna Gilfix, who opened the event with a stirring rendition of Hatikvah and later moved the audience with Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah, creating a deeply moving atmosphere.

Throughout the night, students from all five campuses served by Hillel of Silicon Valley shared their personal experiences, engaging in meaningful conversations with guests about the profound impact Hillel has had on their lives.

Sarita closed with a powerful reminder:

“Imagine being a Jewish student today, navigating campus without Hillel. Without a safe space. Without allies. Without a place where everyone knows their name. Your support isn’t just appreciated—it is essential. Let’s build this legacy. For our students. For our future. For our people. Because ‘Never Again’ isn’t just a slogan. It’s a promise. And it begins with us.”