A Different 
Perspective 

W

hat comes to mind 
when you think 
of Dearborn? 
Perhaps Henry Ford’s historical 
antisemitic attacks on Jews 
or its status as home to the 
largest Muslim population in 
the U.S.? Historically perceived 
as unwelcoming to Jewish 
residents, my experience in 
Dearborn, since moving there 
in 2020 to pursue my bachelor’s 
degree at the University 
of Michigan–Dearborn, 
contradicts the preconceived 
stigma associated with the city.
As a student, I’ve been 
impressed by the inclusivity, 
diversity and tolerance dis-
played by my fellow students 
and the school administration. 
Hillel of Metro Detroit has 
provided consistent support on 
campus, enabling me to engage 
in work I’m passionate about as 
a Jewish student. Additionally, 
our university houses the Voice 
and Vision Holocaust Survivor 
Oral Archive, a valuable asset 
detailed by the curator and 
director, Dr. Jamie Wraight, 
Ph.D., who also teaches a course 
on the history of the Holocaust.
Following the events of Oct. 
7, I’ve felt fortunate to receive 
outreach from faculty, ensuring 
my well-being and expressing 
their support. Palestinian stu-
dents on campus have offered 
solidarity, which I reciprocated, 
as we both recognize the broad-
er impact of the events. 
In light of the tragic 
murder of Detroit Downtown 
Synagogue President Samantha 

Woll (subsequent evidence 
suggesting it was not motivated 
by antisemitism), my friends, 
both Jewish and Palestinian, 
have reached out for mutual 
support, acknowledging the 
shared pain caused by ongoing 
conflicts.
Being a Jewish student in 
Dearborn is, for me, a glass half 
full. I am fortunate to be part 
of a community that, despite 
its struggles, extends support 
and solidarity. This mutual 
understanding gives me hope 
and optimism, emphasizing 
that the effects of war touch 
everyone. Ultimately, a strong 
community uplifts each 
member, fostering resilience 
and unity. @

Sammy Caruso is a senior at 
UM-Dearborn majoring in political 
sciences.

for college students 
by college students

Life for a Jewish student at UM-Dearborn.

Sammy Caruso } jewish@edu writer

46 | NOVEMBER 23 • 2023 
J
N

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