The Board of Deputies of British Jews is alarmed by reports of racist harassment and abuse following the result of the European Union referendum last Thursday. We believe that it is incumbent on Government, civil society and business to make it absolutely clear that EU nationals and other minorities resident in the United Kingdom are protected and valued. We note that the police are investigating an attack on the Polish Social and Cultural Association in Hammersmith and will be writing to the Polish Ambassador later today to express solidarity.
Chief Executive Gillian Merron said: “It is important during these times of political uncertainty in our country to ensure that nobody feels vulnerable and threatened. Everyone, including European Union citizens and other minorities resident in the UK, has the right to security and protection from hate speech. The Jewish community knows all too well these feelings of vulnerability and will not remain silent in the face of a reported rise in racially motivated harassment.”