The University of Westminster once again played host to a model Seder, a unique Passover experience organised as part of the World in Westminster series. Students, colleagues and community members were brought together to experience the joy and traditions of the Jewish festival for the third year in a row.
Passover is a major Jewish festival, commemorating the exodus from slavery in Egypt. The event, held as part of Westminster’s Programme for Enhancing Inclusion, Belonging and Sustainable Development, is part of the World in Westminster Cafes series. Those present were able to experience a traditional Passover Seder, presented in an accessible way with mixed media, explanations, real stories and ceremonial food.
Debs Harris, College Support Officer for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, organised the event alongside the University’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity (EDI) Team and presented the significance and traditions of the festival. She was joined by her Father-in-law, Howard Harris, who assisted with the prayers and explanations.
Harris said: “In the face of rising antisemitism in London and the rest of the world, I believe education and demystification are powerful tools for building peace. It continues to be a privilege to be able to share my culture in this way.”
Westminster’s EDI Programme is led by Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Global Engagement and Employability and the Co-Chair of the University’s EDI Committee, Professor Dibyesh Anand.
He added: “We are committed to challenging prejudices and celebrating diversities. As we witness heightened antisemitism in the wider society in our country, our determination to bring diverse individuals together to celebrate the richness of Jewish traditions and cultures is even stronger.”
Zahrah Surooprajally, Events and Student Empowerment Programmes Manager and Co-Chair of the Women of Westminster Colleague Network, commented: “This was my second time attending the Mock Seder, and I love how I learnt a little more than last time. I felt so privileged to be invited to this and see the meaning behind every item on the Seder plate and even more so, how different families add their own traditions. Chag Sameach to all those celebrating!"
Bringing the community together at events such as this directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 3: Good Health and Wellbeing and 10: Reduced Inequalities. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Find out more about upcoming equality, diversity and inclusion events at the University of Westminster.
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