SA Jewish Board

This week, SAJBD National Director @BroadattheBoard Wendy Kahn and Cape Chair Simone Sulcas and Director Daniel Bloch represented South Africa at the Anti-Defamation League’s National @ADL Leadership Summit in New York — the world’s largest gathering of Jewish leaders tackling antisemitism and hate, with participants from 26 countries. Wendy presented on a panel at the conference on South Africa’s current situation on the topic of “One People: How Jewish Communities Around the World are Working Together to Confront Antisemitism and Build Resilience.” The global audience was inspired by how the majority of South African universities have remained safe, inclusive, and cohesive spaces for Jewish students, despite challenges faced worldwide. The SA leadership also participated in a global roundtable with fellow international leadership. The summit highlighted a simple yet powerful truth: when Jewish communities worldwide share experiences and support one another, they become stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to face the challenges of today and tomorrow.

Thank you @ADL for including the @SAJBD in these important conversations about global antisemitism. Important opportunity to engage with our counterparts around the world especially in the aftermath of the attacks of the past week.

In a time of heightened tension, a conversation between Aubrey Masango and @MaryKluk on Radio 702 reminds us what respectful dialogue can look like. Their discussion on Jewish identity and Antisemitism models meaningful dialogue. As Charisse Zeifert @2JewishZA reflects in her article, these moments of thoughtful, nuanced engagement remain essential to a healthy democracy. They create space not only for understanding, but for listening across difference. Listen to the interview and read the article below. 🎧 Interview: youtube.com/watch?v=_cDdGp… 📰 Article: politicalanalysis.co.za/when-702-was-w…

Our prayers are with the community of Temple Israel Synagogue in the US. More acts of hate against global Jewry. @SAJBD

*SIGN UP FOR JEWISH AFFAIRS: NOW ONLINE* For more than 80 years, Jewish Affairs has been South Africa’s leading journal on Jewish history, culture, and heritage. It's now available exclusively online - making it easier than ever to explore fascinating articles, research, and stories about the South African Jewish community. 📚 Read the latest issue and access past articles for free: jewishaffairs.co.za 📩 Sign up for our free newsletter and be the first to know when a new issue is published. Email the editor David Saks at: david@sajbd.org

Thank you for the warm engagement. Looking forward to seeing the positive impact of your time in our country not only on our community but also in South Africa.

“When politics requires Jews to disappear from a sporting field, a classroom, or a civic space unless they first disclaim part of their communal identity, the problem is not definitional ambiguity. The problem is Antisemitism.” @GroundUp_News Click on link to read full article. politicsweb.co.za/opinion/roedea…

Met with leaders of the South African Jewish Board of Deputies to discuss regional developments and the wellbeing of South Africa’s Jewish community. The United States remains committed to the safety and security of communities and to combating antisemitism in all its forms.

The South African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD) was saddened to learn of the passing of Mosiuoa Lekota, courageous freedom fighter, statesman and devoted public servant. Mr Lekota earned an honoured place for himself in South African history for the significant role he played in the struggle against apartheid and ultimately in ushering in a new era of non-racial democracy. Thereafter, he held a number of important government positions as well as serving as the first premier of the Free State. Both within the ruling party and subsequently in the opposition benches, he tirelessly devoted himself to representing the South African people and working to advance their well-being.   Over many years, Mr Lekota was a warm friend of the Jewish community. Jewish leaders were able to meet with him on frequent occasions and could always rely on his support and good advice. He participated in many significant Jewish communal events, including speaking at SAJBD conferences and at various multi-party debates organised by the Board to involve and raise awareness among the Jewish community in the lead-up to national and local government elections. Mr Lekota further recognised and respected the Jewish community’s connection to the State of Israel, and his approach to this and related questions was consistently fair, balanced and constructive.   The SAJBD extends its sincere condolences to the Lekota family and to Mr Lekota’s many friends and colleagues. We mourn his loss and together with our fellow South Africans across the political spectrum pay grateful tribute to his memory.

Three weeks ago the @mailandguardian published an article arguing that boycotting Jewish institutions that supported Israel was morally justified. The SAJBD submitted a response, which the M&G first ignored then eventually dismissed with a simple, “No, we won’t be using it”. Evidently, the M&G not only believes it is OK to advocate for anti-Jewish boycotts but that if Jews object they should be denied the opportunity even of replying. The SAJBD’s response has since appeared in Politicsweb. You can read what the M&G chose to keep from its readers here - politicsweb.co.za/opinion/justif…

⁠Amidst unfolding global tensions, the message of Purim is clear: resilience over fear, light over darkness, unity over division. We remain vigilant, engaged, and proud. Chag Purim Sameach👑🎭

The SAJBD was deeply honoured to represent the South African Jewish community at the national launch of the 30 year anniversary of the Constitution, as guests of the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi @mmkubayi As we reflect on three decades of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, we are reminded of the values that bind us as a nation - dignity, equality, freedom, and the rule of law. These principles not only safeguard our democracy, but protect the rich diversity of communities that call South Africa home. We remain committed to advancing these ideals and to contributing meaningfully to a just, inclusive, and united society for all.

Roedean Apology: Antisemitism has no place in our schools

OPINION | What does South Africa stand for anymore? For many women who live there and for millions watching from outside the country, the answer is becoming deeply uncomfortable. by @AngieSegal01 (from @SAzionfed) 🔗eu1.hubs.ly/H0rHvwG0