By, Barry Toberman
2 min read
ByBarry Toberman, Barry Toberman
Mitzvah Day projects will help rebuild UK Jewish-Muslim relations in the aftermath of the Gaza conflict, its founder and chair Laura Marks believes.
Looking ahead to this year's day of good deeds on November 16, Ms Marks stressed the importance of interfaith activities, noting that past projects had sparked long-term relationships, such as that between Hendon Reform Synagogue and the local mosque. And given the shared concerns of faith communities, they could also lead to joint activities such as hustings meetings for next year's general election.
She was unaware of any 2014 Mitzvah Day events involving Muslim groups being cancelled post-Gaza."There may be people on both sides who feel bruised and do not want to re-engage," she acknowledged. "But there are many more who realise that such engagements are more important than ever."
The interfaith element of the day will be reflected in around 50 projects, including a nationwide tie-up with the Council of Christians and Jews, whose branches will be involved in food collections.
Ms Marks anticipated a total UK participation of 25,000 people - and 35,000 worldwide - in line with last year's figure. But with Mitzvah Day now well established, "it's not about the numbers but the quality. Three tiny synagogues [Rochester, Winchester and Preston] are taking part for the first time and having them involved is more important than another big synagogue joining in."
Cameron: It's a wonderful example
The three main party leaders, plus London Mayor Boris Johnson, have expressed fulsome support for Mitzvah Day, David Cameron hailing it as a wonderful example of how people from all faiths and backgrounds join together for the shared purpose of a greater good. Days like this show that while there is tragedy and suffering in the world, there is also great kindness and understanding.
Ed Miliband said it was an admirable example of social action reflecting Jewish values such as communal responsibility. Nick Clegg said participants' kindness was changing lives.
Mr Johnson explained that the day was being promoted through our Team London volunteering programme. Get involved. As well as benefiting your local community, you will meet new people and even pick up new skills.
Inclusivity remained high on the agenda with projects featuring contributions from clients of charities such as Norwood, Kisharon and Langdon. "They also want to give something back."
Among those taking part in overseas activities will be young Britons on year schemes in Israel or studying at yeshivot. "It's a great way to engage with charity in Israel and we want them to continue to be involved when they return."
On the corporate side, the Give Away Your Lunch scheme - whereby businesses donate to a local homeless charity or food bank - has government departments and Santander among the sign-ups.
Most importantly, Ms Marks wanted events to be a springboard for year-round activities, hence the launch of Mitzvah Day 365.
"You cannot build a relationship with a mosque or church in one day. It takes love and commitment."
For example, if a Muslim group visited a synagogue for a Mitzvah Day activity, a reciprocal visit to a mosque should be arranged.
"We need overt recognition that this happens all year."