Expressions of horror and shock at the pre-meditated attack on the Jewish Synagogue in Manchester have been widespread, and York City of Sanctuary shares those feelings. Further, we condemn any who give voice to violent anti-Semitic views, and thereby assist and embolden the perpetrators of such atrocities as witnessed in Manchester.

We know that such incidents as this will naturally increase the anxiety and fears that Jewish people in the country have, for their own and their family’s safety. York City of Sanctuary, alongside its many partners, expresses solidarity with our friends in the Jewish community in the city, including the members of the Liberal Jewish community. We extend our support to all within that community who have friends and family caught up in the event in Manchester. I pray those who have been most deeply affected by the atrocity in Manchester will find consolation through their faith and the knowledge of so many expressions of sympathy and support from across the nation.

As an organisation, we are aware also of an increasing level of racist behaviour here in York. The political climate has encouraged those who hold extremist views, cloaked under the badge of their own definition of patriotism, to say and act in ways which only 2 years ago might not have been acceptable. The values of a City of Sanctuary such as York include respect and dignity for all who live here. There is to be welcome for the stranger and security to those coming from places where peace, justice and freedom do not exist. There is to be the building of bonds of friendship between people of many different backgrounds, cultures, and religions.

That is our aspiration. We see where that hope is already evident and true. It is beautiful to see and experience. We see where it is resisted. That feels like an ugly stain upon our community life. When an event such as the atrocity in Manchester takes place, it can create a feeling of despair about the world in which we live. However, the building blocks of a City of Sanctuary are not based on hate or despair. We are using the foundation stones of truth, justice, hope, compassion, and love for one another, hard as that may be. That is creating something solid and lasting. We shall continue building with your help and support.

Paul Wordsworth