26 May 2021
After listening to the concerns put forward by some members regarding the union’s stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict, we would like to emphasise that while we condemn the recent military actions of the Israeli government, we are appalled by all of the violence directed against civilian Israelis and Palestinians, including the terrorist activity of Hamas.
It is also the union’s position that any instance of antisemitism must be rooted out and denounced. In light of this, we categorically condemn the abhorrent abuse that has been directed towards members of the Jewish community in the past couple of weeks, as well as the small minority of hateful banners and rhetoric present on recent and otherwise peaceful Palestinian solidarity marches.
Equity stands together with the Jewish community and the fight against antisemitism, and is having ongoing conversations with our Jewish members and their allies on how we can build on our work so far. As is the union’s policy, we advise members to report any instances of antisemitism they experience or witness in the workplace to the relevant industrial official.
We also welcome Jewish members to get involved in the union’s activities and – as some are already doing – to help build our robust body of anti-racist work, of which the fight against antisemitism is a vital part. It is through our diversity and solidarity that we, as a union, become stronger and are able to win fair and dignified working rights for all of our members.
For frequently asked questions about Equity’s position on Israel and Palestine, please see the below.