Jane Hutt AS, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Trefnydd and Chief Whip
The terrorist attack on Thursday at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation synagogue in Manchester, on Yom Kippur — the holiest day in the Jewish calendar – was a vile and cowardly betrayal of our shared values. Our condolences remain with the brave victims who lost their lives and we wish those injured or affected a full and swift recovery.
Yom Kippur is a day of peace and reflection. No one should have to fear violence for exercising their religious freedoms. Whatever your beliefs or background, this attack on our Jewish community is an attack on our society.
The First Minister issued an immediate statement on Thursday and met with Rabbi Rose from Cardiff United Synagogue on Friday morning. I also spoke with a representative of the South Wales Jewish Representative Council that day. It is clear that our Jewish community feels threatened and shocked by last week’s events. Our conversations reflected upon fears of rising antisemitism and it is imperative that we stand together in solidarity with our Jewish community.
Last week I also spoke with Policing in Wales partners and they confirmed that additional patrols and resources were attending synagogues to reassure Jewish communities about their protection. We also spoke with the Community Security Trust (CST) to offer our support.
Acts of violence against places of worship are a stark reminder of the importance of demonstrating our shared commitment to peace and mutual respect. I want to thank members of the Faith Community Forum for their continued engagement and leadership. Their contributions are vital as we work together to foster unity and resilience in the face of such troubling events.
October is a holy period for our Jewish community and tomorrow will also be the second anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel and taking of hostages who are yet to be returned. We have seen attacks in England on Mosques last weekend but we must remember that our society is inclusive and will remain so, despite the heinous actions of a small number of hateful individuals.
The Welsh Government stands firmly against all forms of hate and violence. We will continue to work closely with our faith leaders and community representatives to ensure Wales remains a place where diversity is valued and protected. I call upon everyone to stand together with the Jewish community and any other community experiencing hate.
If you have been affected by the incident in Crumpsall, Manchester on 2 October, or any other terrorist incident, you can read about support available here: Support for victims of terrorism - Support for Victims of Terrorism
If you believe you have been a victim of hate crime, you can call the Welsh Government’s Wales Hate Support Centre (run by Victim Support) for free, confidential advice and guidance. The Centre is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year via www.reporthate.victimsupport.org.uk, by calling 0300 3031 982, or by e-mail Hate.CrimeWales@victimsupport.org.uk