150 young Jews march for refugees to ‘send a clear signal’ to communal leaders

13 September 2015, 3:39 pm
Young Jews leading the demonstration (Credit: Deborah Blausten)

Jewish activists attended a march in central London in solidarity with refugees.

Over 150 young Jewish activists took part in the ‘Jewish bloc’, joining thousands of others on Saturday.

They marched from Marble Arch to Parliament Square, with speeches made outside parliament, including from Jeremy Corbyn after being elected as the new leader of the Labour Party.

The Jewish bloc formed a walking group from North London for those who were observing Shabbat, whilst marchers carried signs that delivered messages of support for refugees.

Signs included declarations such as ‘Jews welcome refugees’, in addition to biblical quotes like “You shall not oppress the stranger for you were strangers in the land of Egypt”.

An organiser of the demonstration told Jewish News: “We believe that the large turnout at the Jewish bloc should send a clear signal to the leaders of Jewish communal organisations, that young people desire strong action, beyond just humanitarian aid, we want political activism.”

Many of the protesters were aligned to Jewish youth groups , including Masorti,  Reform, and Bnei Brith Youth Organisation. There was also representation from the Jewish Socialist’s Group. 

The Jewish Bloc was supported by JCORE (the Jewish Council for Racial Equality). 

 

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