Values in action at Business and Legal Breakfast

Melinda Simmons, Head of the Conflict Department at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office gave a fascinating talk to a group of professionals at Thursday’s Reform Judaism Business and Legal Breakfast.

Melinda, who is a Reform synagogue member, spoke of Britain’s role in global conflict resolution and focussed on the importance of education in troubled regions. Rabbi Laura Janner-Klausner noted that with Judaism’s emphasis on tikkun olam – repairing the world – we have an obligation to make the world around us and the communities where we live in a better place.

The event also focussed on Reform Judaism’s work on university campuses where many students face challenges from anti-Israel groups as well as a lack of support and consideration for the needs of Progressive Jewish students.  Reform Judaism is working together with Liberal Judaism through the Progressive alliance in order to support more Progressive students.

Reform Judaism’s Chair, Robert Weiner said: “This was a fantastic opportunity to hear about British and Reform Jewish values in action. Melinda’s presentation was stimulating and challenging, offering a unique insight into this vital area of work which so often goes unreported”.

The event was held at Berwin Leighton Paisner’s London Bridge offices.