On Sunday, 22nd June, René Cassin was invited to take part in Magen Avot’s community celebration. For over four years, the synagogue community has supported the René Cassin campaign to end the persecution of Uyghurs, and therefore, our stand provided information and learning opportunities on the issue of Uyghur forced labour in UK supply chains.
Uyghur Forced Labour
The response from the congregation was inspiring, with many attendees surprised to discover familiar brands, found within their homes, were complicit in Uyghur forced labour. The attraction of the day was tubes of Tomato paste sold in leading UK supermarkets – holding tubes of tomato paste naturally gauged people’s interest, attempting to identify they’re relevance. Such engagement prompted insightful reflections about ethical consumption and human rights. Both children and adults were eager to learn more about the Uyghur people, their culture, the injustices they face and what we here, in the UK, can do to challenge the forced labour of Uyghurs.
Kanvay
We were fortunate to have Kanvay alongside us, a UK-based Uyghur partner organisation dedicated to preserving and celebrating Uyghur culture through modern fashion and handcrafted goods. The first sale of the day was a Doppa—a traditional Uyghur skullcap, hand embroidered in blue and white, that has become a symbol of resistance. The Doppa, which was worn throughout the event, embodied resistance- acting as a quiet but powerful reminder that presence itself can be an act of solidarity, a thread connecting past and present, culture and courage.
Kanvay, and many others from the UK’s Uyghur community, represent a struggle for the perseverance of a people, a language and culture – a burden shared by most Uyghurs and their allies.
Magen Avot
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Magen Avot Synagogue for warmly welcoming us into their community and for their ongoing solidarity with René Cassin, particularly in our work with the Uyghur community. Their support created a space for meaningful dialogue, learning, and connection, and we are grateful for the opportunity to participate in this event.
Solidarity
It takes great courage to share one’s voice and story- René Cassin will continue to stand with marginalised and minority groups in our society, advocate for justice, and amplify the voices that must be heard.
We invite you to join our work in making the Jewish case for human rights — learn, listen, and act. Solidarity begins with awareness, and every conversation can be a step toward justice.
