Mazel tov on your “Mule Mitzvah”

On Saturday, Mar. 5, the Great Room in Seegers Union filled with students celebrating a bar/bat mitzvah. Or—more aptly—a “Mule Mitzvah.” “Mule Mitzvah” is “a dance party celebrating life and Jewish tradition,” as articulated by Student Government Association (SGA) and Hillel, the two groups who hosted the event. 

Allison Mintz ‘23, executive secretary of SGA, conceived of the idea for the event. She shared, “I thought about how many of my friends and peers have never been to a bar or bat mitzvah despite attending a school with a large Jewish population. Growing up in an area with a somewhat significant Jewish population, going to bat and bar mitzvahs every Saturday night was such a fun and important aspect of my social and Jewish experiences, and I wanted to take some of the best elements of b’nai mitzvah parties and bring them to a campus-wide event!” 

The event featured airbrush tattoos, free socks for the dance floor, popular party games such as “Coke and Pepsi,” “Limbo” and much more.

Ben Eber ‘23, SGA vice president said, “It was amazing that student government and Hillel could collaborate and bring an authentic Jewish experience to the entire Muhlenberg community.”

It was amazing that student government and Hillel could collaborate and bring an authentic Jewish experience to the entire Muhlenberg community.

Ben Eber ‘23

Alcohol was provided for students over 21, while a just-as-exciting shirley temple station was available as an alternative for all students. Snacks included finger foods such as spring rolls and pigs-in-a-blanket, as well as a wide array of desserts.

Maya Brooks ‘24, an SGA representative on the campus engagement committee, added, “The goal was a celebration of Jewish culture that everyone, whatever religious affiliation someone practices, could enjoy… I hope that everyone that came was able to learn a little bit about bar and bat mitzvahs and enjoyed the fun, food and festivities.”

The event was handled with sensitivity, as to be sure that Jewish culture was being respected. Brooks explained, “Our SGA committee… worked closely with Hillel to make sure we were handling everything appropriately.

‘Mule Mitzvah’ was a good way to connect students from all different walks of campus. The music, dancing, activities, and food and drinks all made for a fun night!

Cat Duncan ’23

Mintz added, “My biggest priority with this event was making sure we had Hillel involvement and approval. Even though I myself had a bat mitzvah, I never want to use my Jewish experiences inappropriately.”

The event was a success, with students from a variety of backgrounds sharing that they enjoyed it.

Cat Duncan ‘23 shared, “‘Mule Mitzvah’” was a good way to connect students from all different walks of campus. The music, dancing, activities, and food and drinks all made for a fun night!”