FULL COVERAGE OF THE GENERAL ELECTION
VTHE JEWISH community is spread across nearly every single parliamentary constituency in the UK. Since its readmission to this country some 360 years ago, it has built a strong and proud record of engagement with public and civic life.
British Jews are simply citizens, rightly and properly active in our participatory democracy.
However, Jews are disproportionately targeted in turbulent political times, and against the current backdrop in Britain, antisemitism is rising.
Jews feature in the conspiracies and lies drawn on by populists as part of their “us versus them” talk.
To that end, the Jewish community has a responsibility, as we all do, to shun, to protest and to cast out antisemites. The best way to do that is at the ballot box. You must ensure you are registered to vote.
Antisemitism has, regrettably, been a feature of political debate and discussion over the last parliamentary term. There have been numerous shocking revelations of public figures positing or parroting age-old anti-Jewish tropes.
Racists should not have a free pass in Britain. Those standing for office, whatever their party, whether they be an existing MP or a new candidate, must be held to account for their views, words and actions. Critically, there must be consequences for antisemites.
The election will take place on December 12. If you are voting after work, it may be cold and dark. There might be snow inhibiting elderly readers or relatives from getting out. There could be rain deterring you from venturing outdoors. Perhaps you have an early holiday planned. For all these reasons and numerous others, you may want to consider a proxy or a postal vote. Are you a student or do you have a son, daughter or another young relative in higher education? If so, they have the potential to vote at home or, sometimes more importantly, away. They should make the decision about where their vote is likely to have the most impact.
If you want to direct your candidates to some educational material, the Antisemitism Policy Trust has an educational resource at www.antisemitism. org.uk/election19.
Voter registration can take place through the government website, www.gov.uk/register-to-vote. You must be registered to vote by November 26. Encourage your friends, neighbours, colleagues and anyone else to register.
Whatever your party, however you vote, make antisemites pay the price for their decision to seek public office.