A controversial decision by an East London school to organize a collective fast in solidarity with Gaza has sparked criticism, particularly from Jewish parents concerned about rising antisemitism on campus.
The school, located in Tower Hamlets, has instructed students to participate in a day-long fast this Friday, abstaining from food between 8:30 AM and 4:00 PM. The initiative has raised particular concerns given that over half of the student body qualifies for free school meals, with many coming from families living below the poverty line.
Speaking to the Jewish Chronicle, a Jewish parent, who requested anonymity due to safety concerns, revealed that her son has been forced to conceal his religious identity at school. "The environment has become increasingly hostile," she said. "Jewish students are made to feel ashamed, and no one would dare openly identify as Jewish anymore."
The parent also reported disturbing incidents of antisemitism, including swastikas found drawn in classrooms and stairwells. She noted that a PLO flag has been displayed outside the school since October 7, adding to the tense atmosphere.
"There's enormous social pressure to participate in these initiatives," the parent explained. "Students who don't join the fast face stigma and isolation. It's particularly difficult for children who just want to fit in with their peers."
The school's headmaster, John Ryder, defended the decision, stating that the fast was organized at the request of students and follows a similar fundraising initiative from last year that raised thousands of pounds.
This is the second such fast organized by the school, which previously held a similar event for students aged 11 to 19.
Local Jewish community leaders have expressed concern about the precedent this sets for religious and ethnic minorities in educational settings, particularly given the current global tensions.
