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UF Hillel Hosts 7th Annual 'Spread Cream Cheese Not Hate' Bagel Day
Program seeks 7,000 signatures to combat antisemitism on campus
Jan. 27, 2026 at 10:31pm
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The University of Florida's Hillel organization is hosting its 7th annual 'Spread Cream Cheese Not Hate' Bagel Day on January 28, 2026. The event aims to bring together over 630 student volunteers, both Jewish and non-Jewish, along with more than 120 student organizations to stand against antisemitism and promote dialogue on campus. The program's goal is to secure 7,000 signatures on the 'Spread Cream Cheese Not Hate' pledge, where individuals commit to combating antisemitism and all forms of hate.
Why it matters
With one of the largest Jewish student populations in the country, the University of Florida is positioned to be a leader in combating antisemitism on college campuses. The 'Spread Cream Cheese Not Hate' program serves as a model for other universities to follow, fostering education, dialogue, and community-building around this important issue.
The details
The 'Spread Cream Cheese Not Hate' Bagel Day program is led by a team of nearly 40 students in partnership with the Hillel staff. In 2025, the event had 546 volunteers and 106 campus partners, which has increased to 630 volunteers and 120 partners in 2026. Participants can sign the pledge and receive a free bagel and cream cheese at one of four locations on campus. The bagel serves as an invitation for conversation, as student volunteers engage with their peers, faculty, and staff about their personal experiences with antisemitism.
- The 7th annual 'Spread Cream Cheese Not Hate' Bagel Day will take place on January 28, 2026.
- The 2025 pledge garnered 6,598 signatures, with 70% identifying as non-Jewish allies, an increase from 5,300 signers in 2024.
The players
Hillel at the University of Florida
A Jewish student organization that is hosting the 'Spread Cream Cheese Not Hate' Bagel Day program.
Diane and Howard Schilit Hillel at University of Florida
The organization that founded the 'Spread Cream Cheese Not Hate' program in January 2020 to combat antisemitism through education, dialogue, and community-building.
What’s next
The program's 2026 goal is to secure 7,000 signatures on the 'Spread Cream Cheese Not Hate' pledge, up from 6,598 signatures in 2025.
The takeaway
The 'Spread Cream Cheese Not Hate' Bagel Day program at the University of Florida demonstrates the power of student-led initiatives to combat antisemitism and promote dialogue on college campuses. By engaging a diverse group of students, faculty, and community members, the program serves as a model for other universities to follow in addressing this important issue.
