Kmflett's Blog

The need to fight anti-Semitism (and all forms of division and hate) in North London is not new and its still essential

There is a large and varied Jewish population in North and North-West London, and there has been for a very long time. It’s an important part of what the area is.

In the period when I was President and then Secretary of Haringey Trades Union Council (I’m now just a humble delegate) there were instances of anti-Semitic attacks. Without fail we called protests but it must be said that opinion on whether to protest or keep quiet to avoid encouraging further outrages was sometimes an issue. It’s good to see an understanding in the current moment that anti-Semitic attacks must ALWAYS be called out.

Of course others joined in protests, trade unions, community organisations, anti-racist campaigns like Stand Up to Racism and its predecessors.

The Golders Green attack has provoked some ‘false flag’ commentary a product more than anything of social media. When ambulances next to a Synagogue are set on fire its best to regard it as instance of anti-Semitism unless and until its proven otherwise.

Looking back social media had less or no influence but similar sentiments used to circulate. Jewish people might have been attacked but it was probably just a coincidence they were Jewish. It wasn’t of course.

Care also needs to be taken not to conflate anti-Semitism with the actions of the Israeli Government (a political not a religious issue) and Haringey TUC has for many decades stood in solidarity with the Palestinians

It’s a reminder about why Saturday’s central London march Together against racism is so important. Hate and division should have no place in British society but they will have unless actively opposed. See you there.