The past year has seen numerous attempts to create and entrench divisions in society, especially between those of different faith groups and ethnicities. The most recent example of this is the attack in Westminster just a month ago;

UJS President Josh Seitler attended the 15th World Jewish Congress in New York on April 23-25 2017. He was part of a delegation from the Board of Deputies of British Jews.

Just before Jewish students sat down to Seder night, it was revealed that Brunel SU President Ali Milani has previously published a number of Tweets containing antisemitic tropes. Milani is seeking election to the role of NUS Vice President (Union Development) at the upcoming NUS National Conference later this month.

Last night 150 people gathered for the ninth annual UJS Student Awards. Celebrating Jewish student life on campus, and honouring the incredible hard work put in by the students who make it happen, were representatives from J-Socs throughout the UK and Ireland.

Today, Rob Young, NUS Vice President Society & Citizenship published his report into Jewish students’ experiences which can be found here:http://www.nusconnect.org.uk/articles/jewish-students-have-told-us-about-their-experiences-now-we-must-act. UJS were proud to be involved in the development of the survey.

Students from J-Socs across England and Scotland gathered in London on Sunday to attend UJS’ second annual Liberation Conference. The Conference provided a space for Jewish students who self-define as women, disabled and/or LGBT+ to meet each other, discuss their experiences, empower their peers and be empowered and inspired.

In the last few days, UJS has been working with and supporting Jewish students at LSE and Middlesex University to raise concerns to their respective universities and students’ unions regarding the presence of Richard Falk on their campuses. Falk is known to have a past record of using antisemitic rhetoric.

Pans were sizzling, lemons were zesting (is that a thing?) and the scent of competition was in the air.

UJS have been privileged to host Dr Einat Wilf this week. Dr Wilf spoke in London, Leeds, and Exeter to around 120 students.

Here is the shortlist of nominees for the 9th UJS Student Awards! Congratulations to everyone who nominated and thank you to the nominators. We look forward to seeing the nominees and guests at the Student Awards next month; watch this space for the winners, to be announced on the night.