News
Investigation into claims of antisemitism at NUS: last call for evidence
An external QC is undertaking an investigation into alleged antisemitism at the NUS
July 1, 2022 16:08
An external QC is undertaking an investigation into alleged antisemitism at the NUS
July 1, 2022 16:08Anyone with evidence relating to allegations of antisemitism at the National Union of Students (NUS) has just a few days left to contact an independent inquiry looking into the claims.
The investigation was instigated by the union with the support of Union of Jewish Students (UJS), and began taking evidence at the start of June.
The final deadline for submitting evidence directly to the investigator via the NUS is next Thursday (7 July).
For anyone who may not feel comfortable contacting the NUS directly, the UJS is also compiling testimony which can be anonymised to submit to the inquiry by an earlier deadline of Monday (4 July).
The investigation into the NUS is looking at “allegations of antisemitism within NUS” that are recent, along with “historic matters and broader culture”. It is also investigating the organisation’s president-elect, Shaima Dallali.
The inquiry is being led by Rebecca Tuck QC.
Incoming UJS president Joel Rosen said: “I would urge students and alumni with experience of NUS, or those who have felt excluded from NUS, to share their testimony.
“For years, Jewish students have been marginalised and silenced by NUS. We now have a chance to make our voices heard. Let’s not miss this opportunity.”
We at UJS are compiling testimonies for our submission to the inquiry. We acknowledge that NUS has opened a direct call for evidence but are conscious that many Jewish students may feel more comfortable submitting their evidence via UJS using this link:https://t.co/cBWpU6vf5o
— Union of Jewish Students (@UJS_UK) June 21, 2022
The NUS said in a statement last month: "We are committed to a comprehensive independent QC-led investigation into allegations of antisemitism and are prepared to take any and all actions that Rebecca Tuck QC’s investigation may recommend.
"Whilst the investigations take place, we continue to work closely with the Union of Jewish Students and are exploring actions that NUS can take in the near future to build trust and confidence with Jewish students.”
The UJS said: “We acknowledge that NUS has opened a direct call for evidence but are conscious that many Jewish students may feel more comfortable submitting their evidence via UJS. Jewish students' testimony can be anonymised if requested. Alternatively, we can share contact details directly with Rebecca Tuck QC, who leads the investigation.”
The investigation comes after the government suspended ties with the NUS following numerous allegations of antisemitism levelled at the organisation.
Hundreds of Jewish students wrote to the organisation earlier this year, calling for it to act to rebuild “broken trust”.
The open letter said Jews on campus had been left “scared, distressed and upset and feeling that NUS is not a safe place for them”.
The student union also came under fire recently after booking anti-Zionist rapper Lowkey for its Liverpool conference. NUS President Larissa Kennedy allegedly said Jewish students uncomfortable with the controversial musician could move to a separate room during his performance.
Shaima Dallali, the NUS President Elect who is also under investigation, has posted shocking content online, including: “Khaybar Khaybar O Jews… Muhammad’s army will return Gaza” – a reference to a 628 massacre, for which she later apologised.
The student activist has also said she would meet Jewish students to “listen to concerns on how we can make our movement inclusive and open to all”.
Evidence can be submitted directly to the inquiry here, or via the UJS here.