(Courtesy of CKids) Launched by the Rebbe in the aftermath of the Maalot massacre in 1974, where the discovery of 20 non-kosher mezuzot at a school tragically aligned with the number of children murdered, the campaign underscored the mezuzah’s significance as guardian of Jewish homes and schools. Today, as antisemitic incidents surge to the highest levels in decades, the mezuzah’s role as a protector and a marker of Jewish identity and pride is more poignant than ever.

“It’s about making a statement that our identity is not just something to be passively inherited but actively displayed and lived, every single day,’ said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, executive director of Merkos 302 and chairman of CTeen International.

The campaign’s practical components are as vital as its educational ones. Each participating child receives a mezuzah at no cost, with local shluchim ensuring these symbols are properly placed and blessed. Families are encouraged to register through the campaign’s dedicated OneMitzvah page, where they join with their local CKids chapter.

“Having a mezuzah on the door is a powerful reminder for Jewish children that their identity is something to be cherished openly and proudly,” shared Rabbi Menachem Lessoff, campaign coordinator with the Mezuzah Foundation.

The campaign is complemented by a new CKids Hebrew School curriculum focused on mezuzah fundamentals. The curriculum teaches children all the fundamentals of mezuzah, from proper placement to the spiritual significance of having a mezuzah on their doorpost; they also personalize their own mezuzah case. The goal is to inspire excitement about the mitzvah and deepen their connection to Judaism.

“The Rebbe emphasized the unique power of children to influence their entire family and community,” explained Rabbi Zalmy Loewenthal, director of CKids International at Merkos 302. “When children embrace their Jewish identity, it naturally inspires those around them, fortifying the whole community.”

With just nine days left to participate, the “Jewish Pride: Inside and Outside” campaign is on track to reach its goal of distributing 5,000 mezuzot. Families and Chabad Hebrew schools interested in joining can sign up at onemitzvah.org/ckids-mezuzah-campaign, ensuring registration through the correct local Chabad Hebrew school’s campaign page.

For further information or questions, contact [email protected]. The program is generously sponsored by “Mezuzah: A Mezuzah for Every Home.”