Board of Deputies call on women and young people to stand for election

A campaign to encourage women and young people to stand for election for the Board of Deputies has been launched by the organisation.

British Jewry’s main representative body is seeking to boost the status of “historically under-represented” groups at the forthcoming elections in May, through a social media initiative.

Launched with four ads posted online, the Board will also write to women’s organisations and youth groups, to encourage  participation.

The ads include messages, calling for women to “find your voice” and “stand up” for the Jewish community, with one graphic picturing a woman named Dina, celebrating her election as the representative for her synagogue.

Board of Deputies Chief Executive Gillian Merron said: “In our election year , we are launching a campaign to encourage more diversity among our elected representatives. In particular, women and young people have been historically under-represented as Deputies and we would urge them to come forward so that their voices are heard. We are also appealing to synagogues and other member organisations to do their utmost to ensure we reflect the make-up of our community.”

The Board is comprised of almost 300 directly elected officials, who are selected by synagogues and communal organisations.

Most are voted in ahead of the elections for the president and Honorary Officers, set to take place on May 13.

You can view one of the Board’s adverts here: