Earlier, this week Progressive Judaism Co-Leads Rabbi Josh Levy and Rabbi Charley Baginsky stood in Trafalgar Square (pictured) as thousands gathered to break the Ramadan fast with a public Iftar.
It was a moment of real beauty: Muslims marking a sacred time, joined by Londoners of many backgrounds, sharing space in the heart of the city.
The backlash came quickly. Nick Timothy described it as “an act of domination” and Nigel Farage “an attempt at dominance”.
Progressive clergy – including Rabbis Charley and Josh – have joined with leaders of all faiths to condemn this damaging language and uphold the values we share.
In a letter, published in The Times, the group of faith leaders write: “Britain’s public spaces have long reflected the diversity of our country. From Easter Passion Plays to Diwali, Vaisakhi, and Chanukah celebrations, people of all faiths have gathered openly and peacefully. These are not acts of division, but expressions of belonging.
“To single out Muslims practising their faith in this way risks stigmatising a whole community and undermines the principle of religious freedom. Characterising peaceful worship as inherently threatening is both inaccurate and damaging.
“At a time when cohesion matters more than ever, political leaders have a responsibility to uphold the shared values that bind us together.”