Three years on from October 7, British Jews are asking: Are we safe here?

Three years after the October 7 massacre, British Jews are grappling with the question of whether they feel safe in their homeland. Benjamin Bell, a London-based corporate affairs leader, reflects on how life has changed for him and many others. The recent years have been marked by seismic events such as AI, Brexit, and the COVID-19 pandemic, but the most significant change came on October 7, 2023. That day marked the largest loss of Jewish life since the Holocaust, leaving an indelible mark on the community.

Following the tragedy, a different kind of pain has persisted—a pain of hate and delegitimization that has only intensified in the aftermath. Despite the hardships faced by their ancestors over the centuries, including contributions to the UK's economy and military, recent generations of British Jews now often feel the need to navigate a world of heightened vigilance. The notion of packing bags, as their ancestors did centuries ago, feels both quaint and eerily relevant.

In the present "Jew Normal," Jews must constantly consider safety measures, such as concealing religious symbols on public transportation or planning walking routes to avoid antisemitic marches. The inclusion of minority groups has been met with silence in the face of antisemitic atrocities, adding to the community's anxiety. Parents like Benjamin's son express confusion and pain over the hate directed towards Jews, while community leaders grapple with how to respond to the growing crisis.

The Community Security Trust's data confirm that this is not merely a matter of anxiety, but an evidential crisis that demands urgent attention. Factors such as the proliferation of hate speech on social media and the actions of motivated bad actors have fueled this growing threat. Benjamin reflects on how the fear of being visibly Jewish now permeates daily life, even extending to children's activities like Sunday League football.

Despite these challenges, the community has remained resilient, finding strength in solidarity and support. Weddings, Shabbat dinners, and vigils have continued, creating bonds that strengthen the Jewish fabric. However, this resilience should not come at the cost of fear. The community needs allies to speak up against racism and bigotry, but the reality is that courage is no longer optional—it is imperative.

The situation underscores the importance of strong policing and political leadership to combat antisemitism effectively. Ultimately, the fight against hate requires a cultural shift that values history and learning from the past to prevent repeating it. For Benjamin and his fellow British Jews, the most critical defense is to continue living proudly, upholding their traditions, and safeguarding their beliefs, knowing that the torch of Judaism has endured for millennia and can endure for generations to come.