Danielle Sobkin Couldn’t Stay Silent During Antisemitic Protests at UC Berkeley

In the aftermath of October 7, many Jewish college students are facing discrimination for simply being Jewish.

Danielle Sobkin, a recent graduate of UC Berkeley in California, was stunned by what she saw on campus.

“After October 7, I found myself in the eye of the storm,” she told Aish. “The antisemitism on campus was palpable and I couldn’t stay silent.”

Some of the incidents at UC Berkeley included a violent protest of an Israeli speaker that led to Jewish students being evacuated; the endorsement of the Oct. 7 attacks by the SJP group on campus; and two students allegedly hitting a Jewish student who was holding an Israeli flag.

Despite the risk, Danielle was out there, showing her Jewish pride every step of the way. She not only demonstrated it on campus – she also wrote many articles on it for The Times of Israel and The Jerusalem Post and spoke to media outlets like Campus Reform and Fox Business.

“I was at the forefront of rallies, events, and community gatherings, speaking on national news, and creating a nationwide initiative that united student leaders across the country,” she said. “It was no longer just about surviving — it was about leading, advocating, and ensuring that Jewish students could reclaim their narratives.”

Running with Aish for World Zionist Congress

Danielle hopes to continue her advocacy as a candidate for the World Zionist Congress. She’s running on the Aish Ha’Am slate “because their vision of a dynamic, inclusive Zionism speaks to the future of the Jewish people,” she said. “Their focus on Jewish education, heritage, and strengthening our connection to Israel is vital now more than ever. I want to ensure young voices shape the policies that will secure our collective future, both in Israel and the diaspora.”

According to Danielle, Aish’s approach “blends spiritual connection with strategic action. While other slates might focus solely on political interests, Aish Ha’Am champions a holistic Zionism that integrates Jewish identity, education, and the security of Israel. It’s about long-term investment in both our cultural and political strength.”

A Message for Young Jews

Danielle, who graduated early from UC Berkeley with an economics degree, believes that antisemitism on campuses and online is the greatest threat facing the Jewish people right now.

If we don’t tackle these challenges head-on, we risk losing not just our security, but also our identity and unity as a people.

“If we don’t tackle these challenges head-on, we risk losing not just our security, but also our identity and unity as a people,” she said.

For Jewish students applying to college – or for students who are already experiencing antisemitism on campus – Danielle has a special message for them: “Stay rooted in your identity and find your people. Be proactive in seeking out support networks, and when antisemitism rears its head, don’t stay silent. You’re part of a global community that stands with you, and together, we have the power to change the narrative. If you’re making noise, you’re doing something right. Don’t back down.”

As a delegate, Danielle would work to shift the narrative around Israel and Jewish identity, pushing for policies that foster a more inclusive and deeper Jewish education, as well as advocate for global solidarity to combat antisemitism.

“I’m also determined to bring the voices of young Jews to the forefront, ensuring that the next generation is empowered to lead,” she said.

Aside from encouraging young Jews to speak up, she wants to inspire them to dig deeper into their identities.

“Own your Jewish identity with unapologetic pride,” she said. “In today’s world, it’s easy to be swayed by external pressures, but your heritage is your strength. The future of our people depends on each of us staying grounded in who we are and finding ways to amplify that identity — whether through education, community building, or advocacy. Don’t let your ego get in the way; a Jew is a Jew is a Jew. We’re all part of this shared journey, and together, we are stronger.”

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