Keir Starmer praises the ‘core values’ of Mitzvah Day ‘in this time of darkness’

The “core values” of Mitzvah Day – the UK’s largest faith-based day of social action – will “shine a light of hope in this time of darkness”, Labour leader Keir Starmer has said.

In a letter written to Laura Marks CBE and the Mitzvah Day team ahead of Sunday’s events, Starmer added:”Support for local charities makes a tangible difference to our communities through the projects we complete and the relationships we build.

“In this time of division, pain and anger, Mitzvah Day invites those of all faiths and none to come together to help repair our fractured and grieving world.”

The Labour leader, who has frequently participated in activities on the annual day of action with his family, began his letter writing:”This year, felt more acutely than previous years, the core values of Mitzvah Day – the belief that through social action and working together, the world can be a better place – shine a light of hope in this time of darkness.”

He added:”I urge our places of worship, schools, youth groups and others to build on the good work already being done and to reach out more to local charities, to support them hands on, and to reunite our neighbours in warmth, kindness and friendship.”

Mitzvah Day 2023 will focus on three key areas to repair the world: loneliness, hunger and the Earth. Volunteers will have opportunities to support people who are feeling isolated, to collect and cook food and to plant and clear land.

The theme was welcomed by Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, who said he was “looking forward to participating in Mitzvah Day this year and, together with thousands of others, [to] highlighting the importance of Tikkun Olam.”

“We cannot solve all of the world’s problems in one day, but every small step helps – and Mitzvah Day gives us all the chance to make the most of that opportunity,” Rabbi Mirvis said.

Mitzvah Day founder and chair Laura Marks was honoured with a CBE in the King’s Birthday Honours list.