Hillel, goodbye: Name change for U of T Jewish student group

In a symbolic gesture of their independence, the U of T Jewish students group formerly known as Hillel at the Wolfond Centre for Jewish Campus Life renamed itself The Jewish Students Association (JSA) at the University of Toronto. After several weeks of meetings and informal discussions, the motion to amend the organization’s constitution was finally tabled at a JSA meeting last night. After nearly an hour of debate, the motion passed unanimously, with three abstentions noted. Approximately 25 members were in attendance.

JSA Vice Chairperson Isaac Apter said the new name “better reflects the the diversity and autonomy of the Jewish community on our campus,” adding that he hopes the change “will empower students.”

When asked if the JSA could expect criticism from Hillel of Greater Toronto (HGT) for changing their name, Apter said that HGT had responded positively to the idea when it was first brought up a few weeks ago. “He [HGT’s Executive Director] was very open to the idea of a name change; Hillel respects our autonomy.”