Interfaith
The SAJBD actively participates in interfaith initiatives to foster a spirit of harmony and co-operation between South Africa’s diverse faith communities. It represents the community on a variety of public and interfaith bodies, addressing issues of public concern such as crime, voter education, combating racism in society, and poverty relief. The SAJBD also supports and engages in programmes promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding.
Coalition Building
The SAJBD partners with a wide coalition of national and international Jewish organisations and civil society NGOs, to support both local and global programmes that deal with community development, poverty relief, HIV/AIDS, natural and manmade disasters, as well as communities devastated by war and terrorism. It mobilises resources, expertise, funds, and volunteers to engage with specific projects.
Recognising the importance of social outreach in South Africa, the SAJBD works closely with Jewish NGOs dedicated to uplifting disadvantaged communities. Many of these remarkable initiatives are featured in the Jubuntu publication.
In addition, the SAJBD leads its own outreach responses when needed—mobilising the Jewish community to assist during crises such as xenophobic violence, the COVID-19 pandemic, industrial strikes, the Boksburg explosion, floods, fires, and other national emergencies.
Political Engagement
The SAJBD maintains close working relationships with government officials and political parties at all levels to ensure open communication between the South African Jewish community and the country’s leadership.
It frequently engages with policymakers, provides input on key legislation, and makes formal submissions to Parliament on matters affecting the community.
Ahead of national and provincial elections, the SAJBD activates its MakeUsCount campaign—promoting voter education, civic responsibility, and increased voter participation within the Jewish community.
Universities
The SAJBD maintains strong relationships with university administrations across the country, advocating for Jewish students and addressing campus concerns such as antisemitism, anti-Zionism, and the scheduling of exams on Shabbat or Yomtov.
If your exams are affected, please contact the Board at 011 645 2521 or email sajbd@sajbd.org
The SAJBD also works closely with the South African Union of Jewish Students (SAUJS), which is represented on its national and regional councils.
