Speaking in December 2022, UK Uyghur exile Rahima Mahmut said:
“René Cassin has given myself and my community invaluable support during a period of collective trauma but also of activism. They have given us access to a network of Jewish organisations, faith leaders and influencers, which has been key to building the profile of the Uyghur genocide in the UK. René Cassin Director, Mia Hasenson-Gross, has personally acted as a mentor and a friend. I am proud to call René Cassin a partner organisation and grateful for all they have offered throughout our years of collaboration.”
Rahima is UK Director of the World Uyghur Congress, and Executive Director of the UK-based campaign Stop Uyghur Genocide.
We first met Rahima in early 2019. We pledged to “bear witness to what is happening [to Uyghur Muslims in China], raise awareness among the Jewish community, and advocate for an end to China’s persecution of its minorities”. Since then, we have mobilised the UK Jewish community to speak out. Read How a small human rights charity made a big difference in prompting action on an unfolding genocide.