Liberal Jews host leading Imam at Biennial

Sayed Razawi was a keynote speaker, alongside community figures, authors and academics

Liberal Jews “thought outside the book” this weekend, as representative from 39 different communities came together for the organisation’s Biennial to discuss hot topics such as anti-Zionism and hear from a leading Muslim leader.

Imam Sayed Razawi was a keynote speaker, alongside author Cole Moreton, Board of Deputies chief executive Gillian Merron, Durham University’s Dr Ilan Baron and Peter Mason of the Jewish Labour Movement.

Razawi spoke about Islam and interfaith relations, while Moreton told delegates to “find a religious expression that is more than a balm for the ails of society”.

The event, held in Solihull, also examined divisive topics such as Israel and the Diaspora, and was attended by almost 300 people, including Liberal Judaism’s new head of strategy, Rabbi Charley Baginsky.

“People want to be involved, push the boundaries and create community,” she said. “I have never been prouder to be part of this exceptional movement.”

Liberal Judaism’s senior rabbi Rabbi Danny Rich said: “The breadth and depth of our Biennial programme shows our movement’s confidence, willingness to explore uncharted seas and focus on keeping pace with modernity.”

Photo credit: Charles Davis