Quakers publish guide to help challenge antisemitism
Recent attacks in Heaton Park, Manchester, and on Bondi Beach, Sydney, have underlined the deadly consequences of antisemitism.
Quakers in Britain recognise that their faith community need to do more on the issue. In response, they have produced a guide to help Quakers recognise and challenge antisemitism.
Printed copies have been sent to every local meeting, with further copies available to order and a digital version online.
The guide outlines the history of antisemitism and how it has taken different forms around the world.
It highlights common stereotypes, such as portraying Jews as unusually wealthy or powerful, or, paradoxically, as an underclass. It also explains how these ideas persist in Britain today.
Practical guidance is included on how to challenge antisemitism and how to respond if someone is accused.
The guide does not provide definitive lists of what does and does not constitute antisemitic behaviour and language.
Context and the experience of those affected are central, and as a predominantly non-Jewish faith, Quakers do not claim authority to define antisemitism.
Drafting of the guide involved extensive consultation with Jewish people and those who challenge antisemitism.
Views sometimes differed sharply, particularly around definitions such as the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance working definition and the Jerusalem Declaration on Antisemitism. The guide sets out these tensions rather than endorsing one.
Quakers say the resource may be especially useful in interfaith work, managing meeting house lettings, and navigating expressions of support for Palestine.