On Sunday 8th September we welcomed a full house to New North London Synagogue, eager to engage with the pressing issue of Antisemitism in Sport & Society.
Featuring a distinguished panel of speakers, from L-R
David Bernstein – Former Chairman of the FA, Wembley Stadium and Manchester City
Jonathan Metliss – Chairman Action Against Discrimination and The Jewish Weekly
Phil Korklin – FA Registered Agent, FIFA Licensed Agent & Co Owner of Momentum Sports Management
Claudia Mendoza 🎗️ – CEO of the The Jewish Leadership Council
Graham Miller – Broadcast journalist and former ITN sports correspondent
Joe Jacobson – Professional Footballer
The panel provided thought-provoking insights. Addressing the significant issue of Antisemitism in professional sports, and openly discussed the problems facing society today.
Joe Jacobson spoke passionately about his personal experiences as a Jewish footballer. He recounted a disturbing incident of antisemitic abuse aimed at him while captaining Wycombe Wanderers. This led his club to arrange personal protection for him before a match. He also shared his ongoing efforts to raise awareness and educate his colleagues and teammates about Jewish identity, in a bid to combat ignorance and intolerance.
Claudia Mendoza urged attendees to shift their approach to social media, saying, “We all need to take a step back from social media and see the bigger picture. It is our duty to make antisemitism as antisocial and unpalatable as other issues.”
Her words underscored the need for collective action in addressing the growing problem of online hate.
A thoroughly enjoyable and insightful evening, thank you to all who attended and donated on the night and special thanks to our exceptional panel.