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The following letter has just been sent by Jewish members of MSF, in protest at the misuse of the allegation of “antisemitism” in the course of the witch-hunt against opponents of Roger Lyons and his misleadership of MSF. For background detail see: Lyons Acts to Terminate Member We, Jewish members of MSF, condemn the expulsion from the union of suspended London region treasurer David Beaumont on the spurious allegation of “antisemitism”. We believe that the cynical misuse of this charge undermines both our union’s policy against racism, and the fight against all forms of racism, including anti-Jewish racism. The allegations of financial mispractice, which David reported on his websites, are in no way racially motivated. Nor can the use of the song “If I was a rich man” be construed as a racist attack. This is ridiculous. The musical Fiddler on the Roof, from which it is taken, is a schmaltzy, romanticised adaptation of the bitter-sweet stories of the great Yiddish writer Sholom Aleichem. It celebrates, rather than attacks, Jewish life and the Jewish people. Indeed, we believe that few members of MSF were even aware of Roger Lyons’ ethnic origin before he accused David of racism. Roger Lyons is certainly not known for his involvement in communal affairs or his support for “Jewish” causes. We call for the immediate withdrawal of the allegation of racism, for a public apology from the general secretary to David Beaumont, and for David’s reinstatement in the union and a full and independent inquiry into all aspects of this affair. We believe that Roger Lyons has done a disservice to the struggle against racism, and confirm that we do not accept his unfounded charge of antisemitism. Signed (all signatories in personal capacity) Roland Rance, MSF Central London branch
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