Ep 77: The Upstander Responsibility with Molly Deblinger and Ella Ben-Hamo on hmTv

Episode 77 – The Upstander Responsibility
On this powerful episode of The Upstander Responsibility on hmTv, co-hosts Molly Deblinger and Ella Ben-Hamo, recipients of the Claire Friedlander Upstander Award, share their personal journeys of courage, advocacy, and identity. From standing up to school administrations and challenging misinformation, to creating safe spaces and confronting antisemitism head-on, Molly and Ella explore what it truly means to be an upstander in today’s world.

They open up about the impact of October 7th, the resilience of the Jewish community, and the importance of education and unity in the face of hate. This conversation is both eye-opening and empowering, highlighting the responsibility of young leaders to spark change, uplift others, and use their voices, even when it’s hard.

Tune in to hear how passion turns into action, and why every voice—especially yours—matters. 
 #BeAnUpstander #YouthVoices #JewishPride #ClaireFriedlanderAward #hmTv #HolocaustEducation #CombatHate #InspireHope

Transcript

Episode 77 – The Upstander Responsibility with Molly Deblinger and Ella Ben-Hamo on hmTv

Molly Deblinger:
Hello and thank you for joining us today. I'm your co-host, Molly Deblinger.

Ella Ben-Hamo:
And I’m your other co-host, Ella Ben-Hamo. On today’s episode of The Upstander Responsibility, we’re diving into our personal experiences as upstanders and what that journey has meant for each of us.

Molly:
We’re both here today because we received the Claire Friedlander Upstander Award. Ella, what do you think it was about your essay that really stood out to the selection committee?

Ella:
I think it’s just the fact that not many people our age really know how to stand up for themselves or use their voice. For me, being an upstander is just part of who I am—it’s integrated into everything I do. I’m so thankful I was recognized, and I know you probably feel the same.

Molly:
Absolutely. I actually had to go against my school’s administration to start a Jewish club. They told me there was no need, no funding, no faculty advisor. I pushed back with solutions to every excuse. Eventually, I started the club and now it's thriving.

Ella:
That’s incredible. It’s not easy to challenge authority at our age. Do you think you’ve always had that in you?

Molly:
Yeah, I think I’ve always been someone who could speak up. I was bullied when I was younger, and it helped me find my voice. It’s not just about defending myself anymore—it’s about defending what I believe in.

Ella:
Totally. I’ve seen your club, and it’s such a warm, welcoming environment. It’s not just a Jewish space—it’s a safe space for everyone.

Molly:
Thanks! And your leadership on the JSU New York Board is inspiring. What’s that experience been like for you?

Ella:
It’s been amazing. I’m even running for the national board now. It’s really opened my eyes to what students across the country are facing in terms of antisemitism, especially after October 7th. That date really marked a shift.

Molly:
Yeah, the tension in schools definitely escalated. Did anything happen directly to you?

Ella:
Yes. A student posted something hateful online targeting me. He got suspended but then started saying even worse things in group chats. It brought out the defender in me. Since then, I’ve embraced my Judaism more and spoken up more boldly.

Molly:
That takes courage. After October 7th, I also started advocating more. Our community came together like never before. There’s power in unity.

Ella:
Exactly. I’ve seen how important education is. There’s so much misinformation, especially about the war. And sometimes that even comes from teachers.

Molly:
That’s the hardest part—when misinformation comes from people we’re supposed to trust. What happened with your social studies teacher?

Ella:
He taught the conflict with so much bias. I had to sit down with the superintendent and parents and go through his materials page by page. It was scary, but I knew I had to do it. I felt responsible to speak truthfully and protect history.

Molly:
That’s the essence of being an upstander. Speaking up even when it’s scary. What’s been your favorite experience as an upstander?

Ella:
Creating safe spaces where people feel heard. Hearing other students’ stories and being able to understand their pain is humbling and empowering.

Molly:
For me, it’s working with Holocaust survivors and becoming an official witness to their stories. Getting to educate my peers using those testimonies has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life.

Ella:
That’s beautiful. If someone came to you saying they were too scared to speak up, what would you tell them?

Molly:
I’d say: once you speak up once, it becomes easier. It’s like riding a bike. You feel empowered. You realize you’re capable of changing perspectives just by having a conversation.

Ella:
I’d share personal stories too, and then ask them, “How would it feel if people actually listened to you? What if your words made a difference?” That’s what it’s all about—using your voice even when it shakes.

Molly:
What does it mean to you to now hold the Claire Friedlander name?

Ella:
It means continuing to spread light, even in small moments. Standing up not just for Judaism but for anyone who needs a voice.

Molly:
Same. It’s about inspiring others to speak up too. Everyone has that spark. Sometimes it just takes a little push to light it.

Ella:
Hopefully, one day everyone will find their voice. That would be a perfect world.

Molly:
Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of The Upstander Responsibility.

Ella:
Be sure to share and stay connected for more inspiring conversations.

Both:
See you next time, and be well.