Thousands gather for protest against antisemitism in London

"Thousands of people gathered outside Downing Street on Sunday for a protest against antisemitism. The rally, which was led by the main Jewish community organisations heard claims that there was "an epidemic of anti-Jewish hate." There have been a string of attacks at synagogues and other Jewish sites in recent months, including the stabbing of two Jewish men in Golders Green, north London, a fortnight ago."

"Ahead of the demonstration, religious leaders across the UK signed an open letter, describing antisemitism as "a problem for all of us to fix". Speaking to the BBC at the rally, Zoe Korsner said she wanted to show that love was stronger than other people's hate. She said: "We don't want to feel frightened as Jewish people. I feel like I have to hide it, it's something to be embarrassed about and ashamed.""

"Mary Rendle one of a number of non-Jewish people who came to the demonstration, said she came to support her husband's Jewish family "because it's the right thing to do". "I hate the fact my step-daughter has to hide her Star of David because we are scared for her safety," she added. A crowd of an estimated 5,000 people gathered to watch religious leaders and politicians from a number of political parties speak, with each receiving a mixed reception."

"Anger at perceived government inaction was on show as Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden was booed and heckled as he said "I am with you, I want to fight antisemitism", while Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch drew loud applause, as she said "I promised that I would stand with you" and Britain "must always be a sanctuary for Jewish people". Richard Tice, deputy leader of Reform UK, was also applauded but Sir Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, faced initial jeers that subsided after the audience was told he was a friend of the community."

Thousands gathered outside Downing Street to protest antisemitism and denounce attacks on Jewish people and sites. Claims were made of an “epidemic of anti-Jewish hate,” alongside recent incidents including stabbings of Jewish men in Golders Green. Religious leaders across the UK signed an open letter describing antisemitism as a shared problem requiring collective action. Jewish and non-Jewish attendees spoke about fear, hiding Jewish identity, and the need for love to outweigh hate. Politicians from multiple parties addressed the crowd, receiving mixed reactions, with some booed for perceived inaction and others applauded for pledges to stand with Jewish communities and make Britain a sanctuary.

Read at www.bbc.com