PM hears Jewish students’ fears over campus antisemitism at mock Seder
Keir Starmer joined UJS leaders in Birmingham for pre-Pesach roundtable
Keir Starmer joined Union of Jewish Students (UJS) representatives and leaders for a mock Seder where he shared his experience of Pesach with family, before discussing the alarming rise in campus antisemitism.
The Seder, which was filmed for the Prime Minister’s Passover video for social media, took place in Birmingham – and six Jewish student leaders led different steps of the ceremonial meal and spoke of their own family traditions.
The Seder was followed by a private roundtable with UJS to discuss the Time for Change report and the experiences of Jewish students on campus.
The Prime Minister spoke of the disturbing statistics in the UJS report and was keen to hear directly from students. Some students spoke about antisemitism they had faced in student spaces, and some spoke about wider fears of rising extremism.
Louis Danker, UJS President said: “There are two stories of Jewish life on campus: one of Jewish pride, joy and resilience, and one of significant challenges.
“At UJS, we felt it important to share both stories with the Prime Minister. We need the full weight of government to implement in full the recommendations in our Time for Change report, and we were grateful to put this case to the Prime Minister this week. We will continue to campaign against hatred and showcase proud, thriving Jewish life on campus.”
Miriam Krygier, Birmingham JSoc President said: “I told the Prime Minister how aware I have become of ‘looking Jewish’ around campus, even thinking twice before sharing that I’m Jewish.
“He agreed that students should never have to be hesitant to be outwardly proud of their identity at university. It is reassuring to know that my voice as a Jewish student is being listened to. Jewish students will continue to defend our right to live proud Jewish lives on campus and to create meaningful opportunities to share our traditions and values.”
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