Welcome to my new blog!

The purpose of this blog is to share with you the exciting developments within UJS, as well as my diary – the recent meetings and actions I have taken as UJS Chair.

Before you continue reading, I’ll quickly explain what the Union of Jewish Students is:
UJS is the sole democratic body representing all Jewish students in the UK and Ireland. UJS is made-up of individual members and affiliated Jewish societies or ‘J-Socs’. As the democratically elected Chair of UJS, I am directly answerable to every single UJS member – aka you!

UJS Chair’s Diary:
Friday 13th Feb: UJS provided over 2,000 Shabbat meals to Jewish students, as part of Shabbat UK. I was in Birmingham with over 80 Jewish students who enjoyed a huge communal meal. Led by Emma Stone, the Birmingham J-Soc committee did a phenomenal job!
Sunday 15th Feb: I travelled to Manchester for their Booze4Jews which celebrated the more social aspects to Jewish life on campus. The club was packed, with Saskia and Donna (Manchester’s J-Soc Events’ Officers) welcoming students from as far as St Andrews. Great job!

Monday 16th Feb: I was privileged to attend the gala dinner of the inaugural ‘International Coalition Combating Antisemitism’. The audience heard from the Foreign Minister of Italy, as well as other senior parliamentarians, such as John Mann MP and Rt. Hon. Jim Murphy MP, Secretary of State for Scotland. I used this evening as an opportunity to challenge MPs and other key figures to comment on the ‘sit-ins’ that have spread to over 20 campuses across the UK. These ‘sit-ins’ must be condemned and the protesters encouraged to express their viewpoint within the law, democratic structures, and without holding to ransom ordinary students. The conference ended on Tuesday with a speech by John Mann which referenced the UJS Lobby of Parliament (Jan 28th) as an example for activism worldwide.

Wednesday 18th Feb: I was fortunate to meet with the German delegation headed by the Vice-President of the German Bundestag. In the morning, I met with Jewish Care to discuss how the younger members of the community can build relationships with our elderly members.

Thursday & Friday: The final part of the week was spent interviewing for next year’s UJS team. We are looking for a passionate and dynamic team to lead Jewish students on campus next year. As soon as the successful applicants have been informed, I will let you know!

Upcoming UJS Events
Tel Aviv 100 White Party, 17th March, Birmingham! An explosive celebration of Tel Aviv’s 100th year, headlined by the Scratch Perverts! Tickets are £15, but currently on sale for £10. Coaches available for a limited time only at £5 return. Go to www.ujs.org.uk to buy your tickets.

UJS Student Awards, 22nd March, NW London - Recognising the outstanding contribution of Jewish students on campus. There are five main awards, each accompanied by a breathtaking prize, including trips to northern Israel and the former Soviet Union. Go to www.ujs.org.uk for further information, and send in your nomination forms!

Chief Rabbi Friday Night Dinner, 27th March, NW London – Book online at www.tribeuk.com

If you have any comments or questions you can reach the UJS team at 020 7424 3299.

Be in touch!