Purdue students hold separate gatherings marking third anniversary of October 7 attacks
Purdue University students held separate, ideologically distinct gatherings to mark the third anniversary of the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel. One group held a vigil for victims, while another protested Israel's military actions in Gaza.
Why it matters
The event illustrates the ongoing polarization on university campuses regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict and the challenges of maintaining civil discourse.
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Students and community members gathered at two locations on Purdue University’s campus Wednesday evening to mark the third anniversary of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel, with each gathering carrying a different message.
At the Purdue Clapping Circle, Chabad at Purdue and Purdue Hillel organized a community vigil to remember those killed during the attacks, those who died in captivity and other victims.
Attendees came together to honor the lives lost, reflect on the tragedy and find comfort in their shared community.
For Purdue University student Jake Belenkiy, the anniversary brought back difficult memories of learning about the attacks three years ago.
Belenkiy said he spent much of Wednesday with a heavy heart but found comfort in being surrounded by members of the Jewish community.
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