Brighton and Hove Council appears to try to silence Jewish community
Brighton and Hove City Council has come under severe criticism after appearing to censor and silence the local Jewish community during the full council meeting on 13th October.
Jewish & Proud, a Brighton-based Jewish community group, submitted a deputation to defend Israel and condemn Hamas, challenging misleading statements equating Israel with genocide. The Council drastically reduced the deputation’s speaking slot from five minutes to around two, and forced them to remove all references to Israel, the Hamas massacre of 7th October, and any defence of the Jewish state. Members of the community were labelled “genociders” while trying to speak.
Mayor Amanda Grimshaw appeared to attempt to silence Sue, a Jewish representative, as she delivered the shortened presentation, inviting a shocking display of hostility within the chamber. What followed was a torrent of anti-Israel rhetoric from Labour Leader Bella Sankey and several other councillors, with only Councillors Ivan Lyons and Anne Meadows having the courage to speak up and set the record straight.
The apparent censorship appeared to be intended to clear the path for the Council to pass a motion doubling down on the false narrative of genocide in Gaza and approve divestment from Israel — a motion that deviates from official Labour Party policy.
According to our representative polling of the Jewish community, more than four-fifths (84%) of British Jews agree that boycotts of Israeli artists, academics or businesses selling Israeli products constitute intimidation. This finding is particularly pertinent given the rising incidence of boycotts over the past two years.
A spokesperson for Campaign Against Antisemitism said: “Brighton and Hove Council’s handling of this matter has left Jewish representatives feeling silenced and unfairly treated. The Council appeared to impose a political agenda that targeted Israel while disregarding the effect on local Jewish residents. Many in the community view this as a profound betrayal and part of the toxic atmosphere in this country that enables antisemitism.”
