Leader of Jewish Greens Calls for Polanski to Step Down After Defeat

How Did the Zionism Policy Affect Jewish Voter Support?

Vivien Lichtenstein, leader of the Jewish Greens, has urged Zack Polanski to resign as co-leader of the Green Party of England and Wales following his loss in the Holborn and St Pancras by-election. Polanski was defeated by Labour’s Keir Starmer in the vote held on July 4, 2024, a result Lichtenstein says reflects growing concern over the party’s stance on Zionism. She argued that the party’s recent policy equating Zionism with racism has alienated Jewish voters and damaged its credibility. Lichtenstein made the call in a public statement released shortly after the count was confirmed, insisting that leadership must take responsibility for the outcome.

The by-election in Holborn and St Pancras was seen as a key test for the Greens amid rising tensions over Middle East policy within the party. Polanski, who has been a prominent voice on progressive causes, faced criticism after the Green Party adopted a motion describing Zionism as a form of racism at its spring conference. Lichtenstein said the decision undermined the party’s commitment to inclusivity and contradicted its environmental and social justice values. She noted that many Jewish members had expressed distress, feeling excluded from a movement they once supported. Polanski has not yet responded publicly to the demand for his resignation.

What Are the Prospects for Party Unity Moving Forward?

Lichtenstein explained that the policy led to a noticeable drop in support from Jewish communities, particularly in urban areas like London where the Greens had previously gained traction. She cited feedback from party members who said they could no longer align with an organisation that condemned Zionism so broadly. The Jewish Greens, a specialist group within the party, reported increased inquiries from members considering leaving over the issue. Lichtenstein stressed that criticising Israeli government policies is legitimate, but equating Zionism with racism crosses a line that alienates potential allies. She warned that without a reversal, the party risks losing broader progressive support beyond just Jewish voters.

Lichtenstein said she remains hopeful the party can reconsider its stance through internal dialogue, but warned that continued refusal to address concerns could lead to a formal split. She emphasized that the Jewish Greens are not seeking to leave the party but want it to uphold its founding principles of equality and anti-discrimination. Polanski’s silence on the matter has fueled speculation about his future, with some suggesting he may face a leadership challenge if pressure mounts. The Green Party’s next conference is scheduled for autumn, where the Zionism resolution could be revisited. Until then, Lichtenstein said she will continue to advocate for a more nuanced approach that distinguishes between criticism of state actions and rejection of Jewish self-determination.

Why does Vivien Lichtenstein believe Zack Polanski should resign? She believes he should step down because his leadership coincided with a policy she views as damaging to the party’s Jewish membership and electoral prospects, particularly after the Holborn and St Pancras loss.

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific policy is causing controversy within the Green Party? The controversy stems from a motion passed at the party’s spring conference that labelled Zionism as a form of racism, which critics say unfairly targets Jewish national aspirations.

Is the Jewish Greens group planning to leave the Green Party? No, Lichtenstein stated the Jewish Greens remain committed to the party but want it to reject the equation of Zionism with racism to preserve inclusivity and trust.