Over 40 people participated in a ‘die-in’ protest during a Hillel event last Monday night at the Red Square.

The event, organized by ClarkU Hillel, was a commemoration of the one-year anniversary of the October 7 attack in Israel. 

The program started at 7 p.m. with opening remarks from the club’s leadership, followed by a song and a moment of silence. About 40 people attended the event and gathered in a large circle around the red square.

After various statements, the group came closer together, creating a smaller circle. Shortly after, at 7:20 p.m., protesters started the die-in. A die-in is a form of protest in which protesters simulate being dead. Protesters, who were masked to protect their identity, calmly laid down on the grass and sidewalk around the Red Square, surrounding those participating in the event.

The event continued as planned after the protesters made themselves visible.

At 8:30 p.m., the event ended with impassioned remarks from ClarkU Hillel Vice President Jacob Vetstein. He briefly acknowledged the protesters’ by stating his strong disagreement with their presence.

Protesters also left at around this time, shouting ‘Free Palestine’ as they walked away from the Red Square. 

Six police officers were present for most of the event. Some were on shift to stay the entire time,and others were on patrol and stopped by. 

Vetstein was asked for comment after the event had completed. ‘We are just here to mourn the lives lost; that’s all we’re here to do.’ He said.

Jeff Narod, who is employed full-time by the Jewish Federation of Central Massachusetts as Executive Director of ClarkU Hillel, was asked for comment the next morning. ‘I am proud of the kids and that they are honoring their heritage,  said Narod.