Greens Push Polanski to Address Proposed Policy Equating Zionism with Racism

The Greens are urging Zack Polanski, the leader of the party in England and Wales, to take a stance on a proposed policy that equates Zionism with racism. This proposal, which emerged from a members’ vote, is likely to be debated at the upcoming party conference in Brighton in October. The policy, if passed, would equate Zionism—the movement for a Jewish state—with racism, call for a single Palestinian state, and could lead to disciplinary action against members who support Zionism.

Polanski has not publicly commented on the motion, which has sparked concern among some party members about potentially alienating Jewish supporters. Despite his reservations, Polanski is reportedly cautious about expressing his views publicly, as he seeks to avoid alienating left-leaning members who joined the Greens under his leadership. These members, some of whom have strong opinions on the Israel-Gaza situation, have been drawn to the party in large numbers.

A similar motion was previously submitted to the Greens’ spring conference but was not debated due to time constraints. It is understood that, had it been debated, both the party’s MPs and Polanski would have opposed it. Polanski is concerned about any motion that might make Jewish members feel unwelcome or hinder the peace process.

As the conference approaches, party members view Polanski’s response—or lack thereof—as a test of his leadership. His decision on whether to challenge the views of new members, some of whom previously aligned with Jeremy Corbyn’s Labour, is being closely watched. The motion calls for a single democratic Palestinian state in all of historic Palestine, with Jerusalem as its capital, ensuring equal rights for all and the right of return for Palestinians and their descendants. It also asserts the Palestinian people’s right to resist and liberate themselves from Israeli occupation and domination.

In navigating these complex issues, the Greens face a challenge in balancing diverse viewpoints while striving for justice and peace, as reflected in biblical principles of neighbor-love and peace (Matthew 5:9, Micah 6:8).

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