Diversity Torch: Jordan Robinson
January 26, 2022 - Liz Schondelmayer
Jordan Robinson is a senior in the Michigan State University College of Social Science, studying Interdisciplinary Studies, with minors in Jewish Studies, Leadership of Organizations, and Sociology. A committed student activist, Jordan is being honored duing Holocaust Remembrance Month for his commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive campus community by combating antisemitism whenever and wherever it appears.
Currently a senior, Jordan came to MSU from West Bloomfield, Michigan in 2018. Eager to become a Spartan, Jordan noted that the diversity and opportunity present at MSU made his decision easy. "I noticed that MSU makes students feel like a number rather than a statistic, and ensures every student can pursue what they want and will have the tools and resources needed to do so," he explained.
On campus, Jordan has two approaches to his activism: first, he engages in community-building work to create a positive atmosphere where Jewish students can feel at home.
"With over 2,000 Jewish students on campus, many of us are involved in a plethora of other things. I try to build relationships with them to make them aware of what is going on with our community on campus and ensure they feel a sense of 'Jewish pride' as well as feel confident combating antisemitism on campus."
Additionally, Jordan works to create connections with MSU's student government, ASMSU , as well as the Office of the President , to combat antisemitism at an institutional level. As Jordan explained, "It's important for us to create allyships and ensure we have partners in the fight against antisemitism."
As a Jewish person, Jordan is passionate about this work due to his own personal and indirect experiences with antisemitism, which highlight the need for a safer and more accepting space for Jewish people to openly practice their faith and share their identities.
"As someone who identifies as a Jew, an antisemitic attack - whether directed towards me or not - feels like a direct hit. Jewish people should be able to express their Judaism and be who they are without any fears or safety concerns," Jordan said. "That is what fuels me is bringing and ensuring that safety and security for my Jewish friends, family, and my community."
After graduating, Jordan hopes to continue this work by pursuing a master's degree in business administration. "After my MBA, I plan on going into the Jewish non-profit field and working with large-scale organizations that have a domestic impact," said Jordan.
Finally, in honor of Holocaust Remembrance Month, Jordan shares his thoughts on how each of us can honor those lost in the holocaust in our every day lives. "The best way you can honor the 6 million Jewish people lost in the Holocaust is by being an ally to the Jewish community and combatting antisemitism when you see it," Jordan explained.
"Reaching out to your Jewish peers when something happens to ensure they are okay, speaking up when you see something, and receiving education are the biggest components to honoring those lost."
Read more:
Diversity Champion
Faculty/Staff
Dr. Amy Simon
Dr. Amy Simon is an Assistant Professor in MSU's History Department. Dr. Simon is a scholar of Holocaust Studies and European Jewish History. She exemplifies efforts to remember the impact of the Holocaust on today’s world.
Diversity Spotlight
Alumni
Micaela Procopio
Ms. Micaela Procopio graduated with a B.A. in History and a minor in Jewish Studies from MSU. She is a Holocaust educator who works to create dialogue around Holocaust history and combating antisemitism.
Diversity Matters
We strive to cultivate an inclusive and welcoming college environment that celebrates a diversity of people, ideas, and perspectives.