Statement on the second Trump Administration

As a UK Jewish organisation led by values of compassion and solidarity, we are deeply concerned by Donald Trump’s second administration.

The Trump campaign – which was built on dangerous, divisive rhetoric, and all too often promoted antisemitic conspiracy theories – caused great fear to many marginalised communities.

Already, on just his first day in office, President Trump has prioritised signing executive orders which bring great harm to some of the most vulnerable in American society and beyond.

The Trump Administration’s actions will prevent desperate people from being able to seek asylum. They will cause immeasurable and long-lasting damage to the global fight against climate change. And his policies and inflammatory language embolden racism, Islamophobia, and hatred.

Today, they leave many migrants, LGBTQ+ people, and members of racialised community facing heightened threat to their safety and dignity.

The forces behind Trump’s victory are also gathering momentum in the UK. On both sides of the Atlantic, we must commit to defending our values of welcome and justice, and to challenge those who seek to spread misinformation and division. At this troubling time, we are so proud to work in partnership with HIAS. As their President, Mark Hetfield, rightfully said this Monday: “America is at its best when we welcome refugees.” These powerful words also ring true here in the UK.

We urge UK leaders to join this call, and for our own community to continue standing with those demonised by growing right-wing populism and the emboldened far-right. By remaining united, we ensure that those facing hate are not alone.