#United States #Los Angeles #OCU Chronicle #Jewish Voices #Mandana Dayani

Introducing The OCU Chronicle

In a bold move to amplify Jewish voices on campuses, The OCU Chronicle has officially launched, marking a significant shift in how students can express their identities and concerns. This innovative student newspaper, crafted by and for students, aims to offer a platform that addresses the pressing issues faced by Jewish communities in academic environments. Positioned as more than just a news outlet, The OCU Chronicle stands as a powerful declaration of presence in the face of increasing exclusion and censorship.

Background and Purpose

Launched on May 13, 2025, The OCU Chronicle emerges from the thoughtful guidance of Mandana Dayani, a recognized business leader and human rights advocate. Under her umbrella organization, the Calanet Foundation, and in collaboration with Our Campus United (OCU), the initiative is a direct response to the alarming trend of Jewish student voices being marginalized within mainstream campus media. After extensive discussions with students nationwide, the creators of The OCU Chronicle identified a common theme: many Jewish students felt silenced or excluded from the conversations surrounding their experiences on campus.

Dayani articulates this vital mission: "It is completely unacceptable that Jewish students on campuses are being excluded, censored, and targeted... The OCU Chronicle is more than just a publication — it's a declaration of presence and a celebration of identity. We’re building a space that amplifies Jewish joy, honors our culture, and strengthens a global community that refuses to be pushed to the margins."

The OCU Chronicle Experience

The OCU Chronicle is not just another student publication; it is a reimagined space for expression that prioritizes joy, resilience, and identity. Scheduled to publish quarterly, it will not only feature bold opinion pieces and on-the-ground reporting from students but also delve into cultural reflections, recipes, and lifestyle content that resonate with the Jewish community. Each issue promises a blend of thoughtful leadership and personal storytelling, creating an inclusive narrative platform.

Readers can expect:

• - Opinion pieces and fresh reporting that highlight student perspectives.
• - Cultural commentary, complete with recipes and lifestyle insights to celebrate Jewish heritage.
• - Real-life stories from students navigating the intersection of identity and community on their campuses.
• - Features that spotlight Jewish founders, thought leaders, and allies.
• - A vibrant, unfiltered platform that transcends mere political discourse.

Notable Contributions

The inaugural issue, launching just in time for graduation season, boasts contributions from an impressive array of voices, including popular authors, community leaders, and prominent public figures such as Dara Horn, Rabbi Steve Leder, and Congressman Daniel Goldman. Alongside these established contributors, numerous student voices will share their unique perspectives, shedding light on their challenges and triumphs in the academic landscape.

A Promise for the Future

set to release its second issue in the fall, The OCU Chronicle aims to seize the momentum of the back-to-school period, ensuring it remains at the forefront of campus discourse. This initiative not only fills a significant gap for Jewish students but also challenges the broader narrative of inclusivity in educational settings.

To join the community and access The OCU Chronicle, interested readers can visit The OCU Chronicle Substack page.

In conclusion, The OCU Chronicle represents much more than a publication; it symbolizes a collective movement toward visibility, inclusivity, and appreciation of Jewish culture within the academic sphere, promising a bright and hopeful future for all students involved.