Board president hopeful Ziff urges Leeds University chiefs to take stand over antisemitism
Michael Ziff has written to the president and interim vice-chancellor of University of Leeds urging them to 'grasp' the issues impacting on Jewish students
Board of Deputies presidential hopeful Michael Ziff has written to the president and interim vice-chancellor of University of Leeds urging them to “take a stand” over the intimidation of Jewish students at the institution in the aftermath of October 7.
Ziff, a former member of the university board himself, wrote to President Alastair Da Costa, and Interim Vice-Chancellor Professor Hai-Sui Yu, suggested the authorities there had “failed to grasp” the issues around antisemitism, particularly since the return of the Jewish Chaplain, Rabbi Deutch, who sparked protests after it emerged he had served in the IDF during the current conflict in Gaza.
In his letter Ziff, who was born in Leeds and studied at the university himself, noted that “since the brutal atrocities of 7th of October, Jewish students have been made to feel unprotected and unsupported.
“To cite some alarming incidents, indicative of this unsafe environment: the attack on the Jewish Chaplain, the sit-in at the Parkinson building, the daubing of the Jewish student centre, and the encampment outside of the Student Union.
“Apart from the absurdity of protesting against “occupation” by occupying University buildings, the demonstrations themselves are misplaced.
“When members of your faculty, staff and students chant antisemitic slogans and incite hatred against Jewish students and staff, the time has come for you to take a stand, not a political
stand, but a moral stand.”
Ziff, who mentions that his family have been “significant donors” to the university, then added:”Ever since the return of the Jewish Chaplain, Rabbi Deutch, the University has failed to grasp and deal with the issues that are playing out.
“The Senior Management Team has failed to take this matter in hand and if you continue to remain passive, I am certain matters on campus will deteriorate further.
“Antisemitism is not a legitimate cause to advance in academic syllabi, lectures, events, demonstrations, and encampments in the University. Jew-hatred is so despicable. It must not
be tolerated.”
Ziff is attempting to succeed Marie van der Zyl and Board president, and faces competition from Amanda Bowman, Phil Rosenberg and Sheila Gewolb in the May 12 vote.
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