Building bonds with allies

The past week’s long weekend was marked by a number of intercommunal engagements, each underscoring the strength of our ties across South Africa’s diverse landscape. The South African Jewish Board of Deputies was honoured to attend the 50th commemoration of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) in Ulundi, KwaZulu-Natal, alongside dignitaries including the visiting Israeli ambassador Benjamin Krasna.

Our bond with the IFP is forged over decades through the late Chief Mangosuthu Buthelezi’s steadfast friendship. His legacy of mutual respect endures, and we are deeply grateful for the IFP’s unwavering support. Participating in this milestone event was a privilege, a testament to the enduring power of these connections.

On Friday, 21 March, we joined the South African Friends of Israel (SAFI) at a prayer initiative in Palm Ridge, Katlehong, led by the Daughters of Zion. This group gathers daily to pray for Jerusalem’s peace, and its devotion was humbling and uplifting. The small church in Katlehong radiated commitment that resonated far beyond its walls, and reminded us of the genuine allies we have in unexpected places. SAFI’s tireless efforts to champion Israel at a grassroots level deserve our heartfelt commendation. Its work exemplifies how faith and friendship can bridge divides.

We were equally delighted to celebrate Greek Independence Day with the Hellenic Federation of South Africa at Saheti School. The vibrancy of the Greek community’s culture was on full display, a vivid reminder of our shared journey as minority groups enriching South Africa’s mosaic. Though our histories differ, our contributions to this nation unite us. We eagerly anticipate welcoming the Hellenic community to our own future gatherings, continuing this tradition of kinship.

In terms of combating antisemitism, one of the most important public bodies the Board has worked with over the years is the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC). Through the mechanisms and procedures laid down by the SAHRC, we have been able to address successfully numerous instances of hate speech and/or threats against our community. These include rulings against senior Congress of South African Trade Union officials Tony Ehrenreich and Bongani Masuku, the latter of which was pursued, by the SAHRC and Board working together, all the way up to the Constitutional Court.

We have recently lodged a new case of antisemitic hate speech with the commission, which will be reported as things develop. This week, the Board participated in a conference held to reflect on 30 years of the SAHRC, and looks to the organisation’s future role in protecting all South Africans from unfair discrimination. We will be seeking to solidify the close working relationship we have had with the SAHRC in the past, and hopefully build on those ties going forward.