A discussion on the different languages spoken across the Manchester Jewish and Islamic community was held by the Muslim Jewish Forum back in November. 50 people tuned into the conversation, which took place over Zoom at the beginning of Inter Faith Week, a national celebration which identifies the contributions made between different faith communities and neighbourhoods across the country.
Former Professor of Linguistics at the University of Manchester Yaron Matras was the main speaker of the session, who explained to listeners the close relationship between the Hebrew and Arabic languages in Semitic culture and gave mention to Manchester’s strong community of Yiddish speakers. German, French, Hungarian and Pakistani guest speakers of the Manchester Jewish and Muslim communities also contributed their thoughts on being bilingual immigrants to Manchester, sharing personal stories about moving from their home countries and adapting to life in Manchester.
Salford Councillor Andrew Walters was among the enthusiastic attendees of the virtual event: “As a glossophile, the discussion on Manchester’s different languages for Muslims and Jews was a subject close to my heart. I can understand why others enjoyed the session so much thanks to the extremely knowledgeable and entertaining speakers involved.”