5:45 PM | Film Screening

7:30 PM | Discussion

 

Join us for a special evening featuring a screening of the documentary, October 8th, followed by a conversation with one of its central voices, Tessa Veksler. The program will begin with the film and continue with an in-depth discussion and Q&A. In our discussion following the film, Tessa will share her experiences as a proud, vocal Jewish student leader, reflect on the challenges and courage required during a year of protests and violence, and offer a message of empowerment, unity, and continued activism.

 

Tessa Veksler is a nationally recognized Jewish advocate, public speaker, and content creator whose voice has reached millions. A 2024 graduate of UC Santa Barbara and the university’s first Shabbat-observant Student Body President, Tessa led her campus community through an exceptionally challenging year marked by rising antisemitism, targeted harassment, and nationwide unrest. In the wake of October 7th, she bravely chose to speak out about her experiences, offering strength, solidarity, and hope to Jewish communities across the country.

 

Tessa’s journey began long before her time in student government. After spending a year in Israel studying Judaics at Bar Ilan University, she returned to UCSB with a deep passion for Israel advocacy and combating antisemitism. She went on to serve in multiple fellowships, including ICC’s prestigious Geller Fellowship, and held several leadership roles that shaped the campus conversation around Jewish identity and safety.

Today, with a social media presence reaching millions and recognition that includes invitations to the White House and United Nations, Tessa has become one of the most influential young Jewish and Zionist voices in the country. Her recent feature in October 8th further amplifies her powerful story of resilience.

 

Join us for a meaningful evening of film, conversation, and community.