Jewish councillor seeks Green Party clarity on anti-Zionism motion

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 16 Oct, 16:32 · Archive

A Jewish councillor in Woodstock has asked Green Party colleagues to clarify their positions after the party adopted a motion describing Zionism as racism.

Sharone Parnes, a Jewish, Israeli and Zionist councillor in Woodstock, has written an open letter to Green Party members Barry Wheatley and Cynthia Muthoni following the party's adoption of a motion describing Zionism as racism.

Mr Parnes said: 'When I describe myself as Zionist, I mean that I support Jewish self-determination and Israel's continued existence. That does not imply endorsement of every Israeli government policy or action.' He emphasised that he does not assume either councillor supports the motion and values their working relationship.

He is seeking clarification so that colleagues and residents who are Jewish, Israeli or Zionist can have confidence they will be treated fairly, without being expected to renounce their identity or beliefs. The letter also asks whether the councillors remain committed to the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's definition of antisemitism, which has been adopted by Woodstock Town Council.

How it is being reported

• Jewish councillor asks Greens to clarify positions after anti-Zionism motionA councillor has called for clarity after a political party’s recent motion sparked concerns of antisemitism.Oxford Mail · 16 Oct, 16:00
• Jewish councillor asks Greens to clarify positions after anti-Zionism motionA councillor has called for clarity after a political party’s recent motion sparked concerns of antisemitism.Oxfordshire Guardian · 16 Oct, 16:00

In this story: Sharone Parnes · Barry Wheatley · Cynthia Muthoni · Green Party · Woodstock

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