In a time of heightened tension, a conversation between Aubrey Masango and Mary Kluk on Radio 702 reminds us what respectful dialogue can look like. Their discussion on Jewish identity and antisemitism models meaningful dialogue. As Charisse Zeifert reflects in her article, these moments of thoughtful, nuanced engagement remain essential to a healthy democracy. They create space not only for understanding, but for listening across difference. Listen to the interview and rea

“Helen Suzman was not only a towering figure in the struggle against apartheid, but she was a proud member of the Jewish community, deeply committed to its welfare and values. It is a profound betrayal of her legacy for the foundation’s chairperson to lend his platform and authority to the targeting of Jewish learners.” Read Wendy's article here

Today the SAJBD attended the Regina Mundi Church for the memorial of Mosiuoa Lekota — a courageous freedom fighter, statesman and devoted public servant. Over the years, many leaders have come and gone, and political winds have shifted. Yet throughout these changes, Mr Lekota remained a consistent and loyal friend to the Jewish community. He stood with us in times of celebration, but perhaps more meaningfully, he stood with us during times that were difficult and challenging.

In accordance with the agreement reached at the South African Human Rights Commission, @samiir Mahlangu has apologized unreservedly to the SAJBD for a hurtful and inflammatory statement. His apology is below. The SAJBD will continue to fight Antisemitism and hate speech in all its forms and on all platforms. Please report any incidents of Antisemitism to the SAJBD Antisemitism Hotline on 078 259 4147.

“When politics requires Jews to disappear from a sporting field, a classroom, or a civic space unless they first disclaim part of their communal identity, the problem is not definitional ambiguity. The problem is Antisemitism.” Click on link to read full article here

The South African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD) was saddened to learn of the passing of Mosiuoa Lekota, courageous freedom fighter, statesman and devoted public servant. Mr Lekota earned an honoured place for himself in South African history for the significant role he played in the struggle against apartheid and ultimately in ushering in a new era of non-racial democracy. Thereafter, he held a number of important government positions as well as serving as the first premie

Three weeks ago the Mail & Guardian published an article arguing that boycotting Jewish institutions that supported Israel was morally justified. The SAJBD submitted a response, which the M&G first ignored then eventually dismissed with a simple, “No, we won’t be using it”. Evidently, the M&G not only believes it is OK to advocate for anti-Jewish boycotts but that if Jews object they should be denied the opportunity even of replying. The SAJBD’s response has since appeared

The SAJBD was deeply honoured to represent the South African Jewish community at the national launch of the 30 year anniversary of the Constitution, as guests of the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi. As we reflect on three decades of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, we are reminded of the values that bind us as a nation - dignity, equality, freedom, and the rule of law. These principles not only safeguard our democracy, but

Amidst unfolding global tensions, the message of Purim is clear: resilience over fear, light over darkness, unity over division. We remain vigilant, engaged, and proud. Chag Purim Sameach.

The SAJBD was recently alerted to an incident in which a community member was refused service by a business and told: “We do not do business with Zionist killers of babies.” The matter was reported to us. As with every incident of antisemitism, we assessed the case and got legal advice. A formal legal letter was prepared and sent drawing attention to the defamation and unlawful nature of their conduct. As a direct result of this intervention; the business issued a full and un

The decision by the Roedean School tennis team to boycott the Jewish tennis team from King David School was unashamedly and unambiguously anti-Jewish. Refusing to play a South African school because it is Jewish is not moral activism, nor does it advance peace or justice. It excludes children on the basis of identity. That is discrimination in its most recognisable form, regardless of the language used to justify it. In her piece in last week's Sunday Times, "Roedean should h

Message from Prof Karen Milner SAJBD National Chairperson representing the Jewish Community at #SONA26

Roedean has issued an apology for its refusal to participate in a tennis match against King David, a Jewish School. King David has accepted this apology as a closure to this incident. The South African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD) has worked closely with the South African Board of Jewish Education (SABJE) throughout this matter and welcomes Roedean's apology. We look forward to Roedean acting on their commitment to turn this unfortunate incident into a meaningful learning

The Roedean’s Tennis Cancellation Was Not A Scheduling Issue. It Was Antisemitism! Listen why:

“When a school does something like this they need to take ownership” - Wendy Kahn SAJBD National Director. Listen to the interview below:

SAJBD Condemns Roedean School's Discriminatory Refusal to Play Jewish School. The South African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD) condemns the blatant prejudice shown by the Roedean School South Africa, a Johannesburg-based girls' school, which refused to honour the fixture scheduled with the King David girls team on the courts of their Parktown campus. King David School has communicated with their parent body today regarding this appalling incident and is continuing to engage

n the spirit of Tu Bishvat, SAJBD partnered with University of Johannesburg Vice-Chancellor Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi for a meaningful gathering reflecting shared values and collaboration. Jewish UJ alumni, students and academics joined students from Yeshiva College and King David Schools to visit the Centre for Ecological Intelligence, share the Seven Species and take part in a symbolic tree-planting on campus. The event highlighted SAJBD’s work in building trusted universit

The South African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD) is saddened by the passing of Leon Levy, stalwart resistance leader in the formative years of the anti-Apartheid struggle. As President of the SA Congress of Trade Unions, Mr Levy was involved in all the major campaigns of the Congress movement, including the famous Congress of the People. On behalf of the unions, he was one of the six original signatories to the Freedom Charter, adopted at that historic gathering as the basi

Wendy Kahn, national director, expressed shock and disappointment on SAfm News at DIRCO’s decision to declare Israel’s Chargé d’Affaires, Mr Ariel Seidman, persona non grata and giving three days to leave the country. Listen to the interview here: