2 November 2023
At a private reception hosted by Lord Leslie Turnberg at the House of Lords, StandWithUs UK were proud to hold a special event to support Israel and to highlight the shared values between the UK and Israel. At the event, StandWithUs UK officially released their new educational booklet titled ‘UK-Israel: A Relationship of Shared Values’.
Guests had the honour of hearing from both Lord Turnberg and Lord Polak on the relationship between both countries and its critical importance during these difficult times. Upon commenting on the current crisis since October 7th, both speakers provided hopeful insights into what we’re facing. Lord Turnberg reminded attendees that, “Reason will prevail. We are going through terrible times and face grave danger. I believe this is a phase and will improve”, whilst Lord Polak reassured everyone that, “I know we will see good from this. Don’t underestimate the work you all do…”
The panel moderated by journalist Catherine Perez-Shakdam also touched upon the symbolic date of the anniversary of the Balfour Declaration, the pivotal moment the United Kingdom supported the creation of a Jewish state. She emphasised on drawing from this inspirational date, reminding attendees that, “the current anti-Israel and antisemitic discourse prays on people’s anger- offering hate as an answer. But these narratives don’t last- they are exhausting”.
Gathered at the reception were close friends, as well as pupils and university students recognised for their leadership and activism. Lana Saffrin Betesh, Chair of StandWithUs UK concluded the evening by exclaiming that, “We salute you and you are never alone. You are part of a family, and you are part of a phenomenal organisation that will be with you every step of the way”.
The evening was part of a series of events for the Herzl Club, whereby guests are treated to seminars, webinars and cultural experiences all relating to engaging with Israel and her people.
About StandWithUs UK:
StandWithUs is an international, non-profit and non-partisan Israel education organisation that works to inspire and educate people of all ages about Israel, as well as challenge misinformation and fight against antisemitism. Founded in 2010, StandWithUs UK has become a recognised support system and leading resource for students on UK campuses. We empower and energise students and communities with leadership training and educational programmes on both school and university campuses. StandWithUs informs through social media, printed materials, digital platforms, film and newsletters. The StandWithUs flagship Emerson Fellowship programme seeks to raise students into future leaders, equipped to stand strong in the face of antisemitism and anti-Zionism. We believe in the right of the Jewish People to self-determination in their historic homeland of Israel. We educate the facts in an unbiased and holistic manner, with an open mind, reflecting on views from all sides of the political, social and humanitarian spectrum whilst promoting peace. StandWithUs UK believe the current discourse surrounding Israel on campus all too often crosses the line between legitimate criticism of Israel’s policies and the dangerous, mainstream, antisemitic rhetoric which stands contrary to the IHRA definition of antisemitism. We work to educate on that distinction, encourage civil discourse on legitimate criticism of Israel, and to fight antisemitism wherever it emerges.
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