Caroline Lucas Criticizes Green Party Motion to Classify Zionism as Racism

Caroline Lucas, former leader of the Green Party, has expressed concerns over a proposed motion to classify Zionism as racism. The motion, put forward by party members, is set to be debated and voted on during the Green Party’s annual conference in Brighton. Lucas, who served as the party’s leader from 2008 to 2014 and co-leader from 2016 to 2018, described the motion as “divisive” and warned it could alienate Jewish members.

Lucas emphasized that Zionism is not a single, monolithic ideology but a movement with diverse interpretations. She argued that defining it as racism risks creating division within the party and may be perceived as unwelcoming to Jewish people. “There is no single definition of Zionism,” she said, adding that the motion could be seen as a sign that Jewish individuals are not valued within the Green Party.

The motion, if approved, would declare Zionism—defined as the movement to establish a Jewish state in the Middle East, corresponding to the historical land of Israel—as a form of racism. It would be implemented by the party’s anti-racism policy working group. Lucas reiterated that the motion was not proposed by the party’s leadership and that she would not support it, citing its potential to be “not helpful.”

Other Green Party figures have also voiced opposition. Adrian Ramsay, a former co-leader, warned the motion was “not helpful” and said it could be seen as undermining the rights of both Israelis and Palestinians to statehood. He reiterated the party’s stance from its 2024 manifesto, which called for equal rights for both groups.

Current Green Party leader Zack Polanski has yet to decide how he will vote on the motion. In an interview, he questioned the practicality of a political party deciding the definition of Zionism, suggesting that such a move could be divisive. He proposed amendments to protect Jewish members who are part of “Zionist” synagogues, highlighting the need for balance in the party’s approach.

The debate reflects broader tensions within the Green Party and the wider political landscape regarding the definition of Zionism and its implications. As the conference approaches, the motion’s outcome will likely influence the party’s stance on Israel and Palestine, as well as its relationship with Jewish members. The discussion also underscores the complexity of addressing racism while respecting diverse perspectives and identities.

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