NYC Gazette

In the summer of 2024, the Impact Office at the Straus Center for Torah and Western Thought awarded grants to students engaged in Jewish advocacy internships. These opportunities aimed to cultivate future leaders committed to public service and Jewish values.

Matthew Minsk, a Straus Scholar from YC '26, interned at the Anti-Defamation League through The Fund for American Studies Academic Internship Program. His role involved working on a book proposal with Matt Williams, Vice President of Antisemitism Research. Minsk's research focused on how conspiracy theories contribute to prejudice and rising antisemitism. He drew insights from scholars such as Karen M. Douglas and Michał Bilewicz, enhancing his skills in presenting complex social issues.

Several students participated in internships through the Simon Wiesenthal Center’s Government Advocacy or International Advocacy Internship Programs:

Gavriel Factor worked with Assemblymember Chantel Jackson’s district office, concentrating on legislative services related to mental health issues in the Bronx. He noted that his position allowed him to represent Jewish values within a diverse community.

Lisa Silver interned with Councilmember Farah Louis’s office, addressing constituents' concerns and coordinating with city agencies. Her significant contribution was drafting a letter regarding water shutoffs affecting Shabbat preparations in Jewish neighborhoods.

Mijal Gutierrez served in Assemblymember Yudelka Tapia’s office in the Bronx, handling constituent cases and legislative research. As a native Spanish speaker, she often acted as a translator, emphasizing empathy and support while integrating her Jewish identity into her work.

Naomi Rose spent her internship at the New York Secretary of State’s office conducting legal research on reciprocity and notary laws. She gained practical experience by presenting a court case and drafting settlements while receiving mentorship from Jack Kliger of the Jewish Heritage Museum.

Avraham Frohlich interned with the American Red Cross on a project surveying college students’ views on the Israel-Palestine conflict across over 100 universities worldwide. His work focused on fostering dialogue about this issue on college campuses.

These internships provided valuable skills in research, communication, and problem-solving while allowing students to incorporate their Jewish values into public service roles. The grant recipients acknowledged the importance of these opportunities for aspiring advocates within both the Jewish community and broader society.