Dame Maureen Lipman and Natasha Hausdorff spoke on Israel at a sell-out event organised by the Fed and the JRC.
A sellout crowd of 300 filled the Hilton Suite, Manchester to hear two of the Jewish community’s most formidable advocates for the State of Israel. One of the UK’s most feted actresses, Dame Maureen Lipman and Natasha Hausdorff – barrister and legal director of UK Lawyers for Israel were in conversation with Raphi Bloom, The Fed’s Director of Fundraising and Marketing and Co-Chair of North West Friends of Israel .
The event was jointly arranged by The Fed and the Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester & Region (JRC) and explored a variety of topics of great concern to the Jewish community – its future in the UK; how the celebrity world has reacted to the Israel- Hamas conflict; how the IDF has responded within the laws of war to the October 7th attack; the next steps for the ICC and ICJ and how, as a community, we can reclaim the true meaning of Zionism from those who distort it.
Guests were welcomed by Mark Adlestone OBE, the chair of the JRC and Honorary Patron of The Fed. Mark reflected on the JRC’s vital work since October 7th, in leading the way in dialogue at the highest levels of government regarding events that have taken place in Greater Manchester. This has seen the JRC’s comments carried on the front pages of national print media alongside regular contributions on local, national and international news channels to ensure the community’s voice is heard loud and clear. Mark also reflected on the Talmudic concept of “Aniye Ircha Kodmim” – “the poor of your city come first”, exhorting guests not to forsake people who are vulnerable and in need and living in Manchester. He emphasised the crucial role played by The Fed – the largest provider of social care support for Jewish people in Manchester – in meeting their needs.
Proceeds from the evening were split equally between The Fed and the JRC to fund their respective work.
Dame Maureen and Natasha received a standing ovation following their conversation with Raphi. MAG Financial sponsored the event, Quooker supplied a raffle prize and photography at the event was by Ruthless Images.