Jewish College Students' Experiences of Belonging, Identity, and Inclusion within Campus DEI Initiatives

Jewish college students navigate complex identities within higher education, often facing challenges related to antisemitism, exclusion, and the omission of religious identity within many Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This qualitative narrative inquiry explores the lived experiences of Jewish undergraduate students at public universities across the United States, examining their perceptions of belonging and the effectiveness of campus DEI initiatives in addressing their needs. Grounded in Jewish Critical Theory (JewishCrit), this study analyzes semi-structured interviews with 11 Jewish students, identifying five key themes: Belonging and Community, Intersectionality and Identity, Experiences with Antisemitism, Institutional Responses and DEI Initiatives, and the Impact of External Events. Findings reveal that while Jewish student organizations serve as essential spaces of refuge and connection, institutional DEI efforts frequently neglect Jewish identity, contributing to a sense of invisibility and marginalization. This study highlights the need for universities to adopt a more holistic approach to diversity—one that includes religious identity alongside race, gender, and sexuality—ensuring that Jewish students feel seen, valued, and fully integrated into the academic community. By amplifying student voices and situating their experiences within broader socio-political contexts, this research provides critical insights and actionable recommendations for fostering a more inclusive and supportive campus climate for Jewish students and other religious minorities.