Antisemitism ‘a problem for all of us to fix’, religious leaders say in letter
Religious Leaders Urge Collective Action Against Antisemitism in Support of UK Jewish Community
Antisemitism a problem for all of us – In a powerful statement, religious leaders from diverse backgrounds across the United Kingdom have united to address the growing threat of antisemitism, emphasizing that it is “a challenge that unites us all in addressing.” The open letter, published to show solidarity with the Jewish community, was signed by prominent figures from Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Zoroastrianism, alongside leaders from business, sports, and media sectors. The document highlights how recent acts of violence against Jewish individuals and institutions have created a sense of urgency, calling them “a nightmare from another time” that demands immediate attention.
A Wave of Attacks Sparks Concern
Over the past few months, a series of targeted attacks have shaken the Jewish community in the UK. These incidents include a stabbing at the Golders Green synagogue in north London, where two Jewish men were killed two weeks ago. The violence also extended to other Jewish sites, such as the Finchley Reform Synagogue, which was recently attacked. Days later, a bottle containing an accelerant was thrown through the window of Kenton United Synagogue, escalating fears of further aggression. The letter underscores that these events are not isolated but part of a broader pattern of hostility.
The most recent and tragic event occurred in October last year, when a car ramming and stabbing attack outside a Manchester synagogue left two people dead and three seriously injured. One of the victims was fatally shot by police, adding a layer of complexity to the incident. Earlier this year, in March, four ambulances owned by the Jewish charity Hatzola were set ablaze in the car park of a Golders Green synagogue, targeting the very lifelines of the community. These attacks have not only caused physical harm but have also deepened the emotional and psychological toll on Jewish people across the UK.
Together Coalition Leads the Charge
The open letter, organized by the Together Coalition, was framed as a collective response to the rise in antisemitism. It warns that the current climate of hatred mirrors historical patterns, where Jewish people were subjected to random violence and persecution. “The sight of Jewish individuals being stabbed at random in the streets, or losing their lives while defending their synagogues, feels like a return to an era of fear and intolerance,” the letter states. It stresses that this is not merely a Jewish issue but a national one, requiring the support of all communities.
The document also calls for a renewed commitment to protecting Jewish identity and heritage. “Jewish infrastructure being firebombed and the sense of vulnerability that follows such acts are reminders of how deeply antisemitism has taken root,” it argues. The letter further asserts, “This country belongs to you as much as any of us. You are as British as all who call this nation home. We will do everything possible to shield you from the extremists who seek to harm your community.” This message of unity aims to foster a sense of shared responsibility among faith groups.
Leaders Respond with Resolute Support
Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis welcomed the letter as a “strong and timely response to the hateful extremists who have targeted the Jewish community.” He expressed hope that the collaborative effort would inspire others to take action, not only in religious institutions but also in workplaces, boardrooms, classrooms, and online spaces. “If these organizations lead the way, it could ignite a broader movement to combat this prejudice together,” he said.
Brendan Cox, co-founder of the Together Coalition, reiterated the importance of unity in the face of division. “Extremists are trying to create rifts, targeting minorities based on their race or religion, and inciting hostility between communities,” he stated. Cox’s words highlight the coalition’s goal of uniting faith groups to counteract the divisive tactics of hate groups. Similarly, Julie Siddiqi, co-chair of the UK Muslim Network and a signatory of the letter, emphasized that the “shared experience of hatred and violence because of our faith” should foster an alliance between British Jews and Muslims. “We are not just allies in spirit but in action,” she said, urging collective efforts to dismantle extremism.
Context and Impact of the Attacks
The letter reflects the growing concern over antisemitic incidents that have become increasingly frequent and severe. In Golders Green, Shloime Rand, 34, and Moshe Shine, 76, were victims of a brutal attack two weeks ago, prompting the arrest of the perpetrator on charges of attempted murder. The same individual was also charged with attempting to kill a Somali man in South London before the Golders Green incident, underscoring the coordinated nature of these assaults.
These events have sparked a national conversation about the roots and manifestations of antisemitism. The Together Coalition’s initiative aims to bridge divides by fostering dialogue and mutual support among faith communities. “We are not just here to speak for the Jewish community but to stand with them as part of a unified front,” said Cox, who stressed the importance of addressing the issue at its core. By highlighting the shared values and histories of different faiths, the letter seeks to build a foundation for lasting change.
Religious leaders have also pointed to the historical significance of the attacks, noting that antisemitism has long been a persistent issue in the UK. The current surge, however, is being attributed to a combination of factors, including political polarization and the influence of extremist ideologies. The letter’s call for unity is seen as a critical step toward healing and reconciliation. “By coming together, we can ensure that no community feels alone in facing the challenges of hate,” said Mirvis, reinforcing the message of solidarity.
As the UK grapples with the rise in antisemitism, the open letter serves as a beacon of hope. It reminds the public that the Jewish community’s struggles are intertwined with those of other faith groups, and that collective action is essential to safeguarding the rights and safety of all. The document’s emphasis on shared identity and common purpose underscores the need for a coordinated effort to combat the scourge of antisemitism and protect the diversity that defines British society.
The Together Coalition’s initiative is part of a broader movement to address prejudice and promote inclusivity. With its call to action, the letter not only acknowledges the severity of the issue but also outlines a path forward for all communities to work together. “We must rise above the hatred and embrace the shared values that unite us,” said Siddiqi, echoing the coalition’s vision. The hope is that this collaborative effort will lead to tangible improvements in the safety and dignity of Jewish people across the UK.