‘Abuse’ and ‘anti-Semitism’ at UJIA Purim celebration

A leading Jewish charity this week received allegations from “a small number” of guests at its annual Purim party that they had been “physically or verbally abused by security staff”, including one report of anti-Semitism.

Around 1,000 young people descended on Revolution bar in Leadenhall Street on Saturday night to celebrate the festival at a UJIA party, but some claimed they were greeted by over-zealous door staff outside a venue where queues stretched to more than an hour.

A UJIA spokesperson said: “Guests have reported distressing incidents and we want to reassure all those who attended that we are investigating as a matter of urgency. There was one first-hand report from a guest that they were subject to an anti-Semitic remark. We have received a small number of reports from guests that they were physically or verbally abused by security staff at the venue or removed from the venue or queue without valid reason. We are in the process of gathering relevant information about what happened and are taking legal advice.”

It’s understood the alleged anti-Semitic comment referred to Hitler. Several revellers took to Facebook to voice their disappointment over “aggressive” behaviour from bouncers.

The charity received a total of 20 complaints but the vast majority related to the queuing problems. UJIA said “extensive planning” was carried out and there was repeated contact with the venue and “other parties to ensure a safe and secure event. UJIA took all reasonable precautions beforehand to ensure the venue and the door staff knew of their obligations and met what was required of them. UJIA staff members have reported that they were prevented from assisting with the queue by the security staff. We are investigating why this happened.”

Revolution bar had not returned calls from the Jewish News at the time of writing.