This morning, I was pleased to be invited back to the Kol Chai Synagogue in Hatch End to speak with some of their members.
This was following my meeting last month with Rabbi Naomi and representatives from two local charities to discuss citizenship, social cohesion and issues impacting the Jewish community.
Taking questions from members, it was useful to hear their main priorities and concerns. Interestingly, the general sense was that while they feel safe in Hatch End and the immediate community, the worry – understandably - is rooted in what is happening more widely, both across the country and globe. This is especially true in the context of protests, reports of foiled terror attacks on the Jewish community and, of course, the barbaric acts we tragically saw in Manchester and Bondi.
I was able to speak about my work with the APPG on British Jews in Parliament and what more can be done locally to foster greater relationships between different faith communities.
I am grateful to all members for their time, and I look forward to continued engagement in the future.
