Keir Starmer praises community for ‘rising to occasion’ in Rosh Hashanah message
Labour's leader thanks the community for work during the coronavirus pandemic, and reaffirms a commitment to rid his party of antisemitism
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has wished the Jewish community a happy new year, praising it for “rising to the occasion” during the coronavirus pandemic.
Reaffirming his pledge to rid the Party of antisemitism, which became the defining issue of Jewish-Labour relations during Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership, he said Sukkot would mark his first six months in the job and that progress was being made.
“I have been proud to strengthen existing friendships while also establishing new ties right across the Jewish community and its organisations,” he said.
“In my acceptance speech, I committed to tearing out the poison of antisemitism by its roots… There is more to do, and at this most fitting time of the year, on the eve of Rosh Hashanah, I reaffirm my pledge to the Jewish community.”
As we usher in #RoshHashanah, I want to send heartfelt good wishes to Jewish communities throughout the UK and across the world. pic.twitter.com/EtrgmIBwww
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) September 18, 2020
Starmer said the High Holy Days were “a period of deep reflection and solemnity,” adding: “This year it feels more significant than ever.”
He said: “In these past six months, like every other part of Britain, the Jewish community has experienced pain, isolation and hardship brought about by Covid-19.
“My thoughts are particularly with those who are alone, those who are vulnerable and most tragically, those in the community who have been bereaved. As always, the Jewish community has risen to the occasion.
“The spirit of volunteerism and multiple acts of compassion, of Chesed, have brought light where there has been darkness.”
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
