1/ I’ve been asked about this by members of the party who are still very unhappy about how it was handled. I’m going to be clear about my views. Whilst it’s an issue that’s important to talk about, I’m going to attempt to do so without making it personal. http://bright-green.org/2019/12/04/jewish-greens-statement-on-jonathan-bartleys-comments-on-halal-meat/

2/ Animal rights is an issue we’re rightly passionate about. Unfortunately, as with many emotive issues, it is sometimes co-opted by those with a divisive agenda. We need to be vigilant and avoid the trap of letting our values be used to reinforce unacceptable narratives...

3/ ...whether it’s concerns about women’s rights being used to stir up transphobia, or perceptions about Halal meat being used to “other” racial minorities.

4/ Mistakes happen; what is important is what happens *afterwards*. It's crucial that if something has been said that undermines our relationship with a minority group, we take the time to listen to those views, to hear and acknolwedge the anger and hurt ...

5/ ...and to find out how we can make amends and rebuild trust. That can be a difficult and uncomfortable conversation - but difficult and uncomfortable conversations are part and parcel of leadership. A leader must be able to take ownership of mistakes as well as successes.

6/ I've been sad to hear from people within our party who are still hurt and angry, and feel this has been swept under the carpet rather than being addressed openly.

7/ To me, inclusion is a key value and that means ensuring that challenging issues are addressed, and lines of communication kept open however uncomfortable that may be. /end