Giant green pickle tells us UK's Jewish culture month has begun

"Londoners may have spotted a giant green pickle bobbing through the capital, turning up at landmarks including the Tate Modern and Southbank Centre, with a simple message: the UK's first Jewish culture month has been launched."

"Beginning on 16 May, the festival, organised by the Board of Deputies of British Jews, will include more than 150 events across the UK, spanning food, music, comedy, architecture, fashion, film and literature. Institutions taking part include the V&A Museum, National Portrait Gallery, JW3 (London's Jewish community centre), the British Library and the National Holocaust Museum."

"Liat Rosenthal, the Board's director of culture, education and communities, said the project emerged from conversations with artists and cultural workers who felt Jewish life had become increasingly defined through hostility, grief and security concerns since the 7 October 2023 attacks in Israel. For me, the response to antisemitism has to be this bold, proud, public moment, she said."

"But she stressed that the month was intended for all, regardless of background or religion. Everyone should get involved, learn something and eat lots of food. That invitation to eat runs through much of the programme."

A giant green pickle appears across London landmarks to mark the UK’s first Jewish culture month, beginning 16 May. The programme is designed to replace fear and grief with joy after difficult years for the Jewish community. More than 150 events across the UK cover food, music, comedy, architecture, fashion, film, and literature, with participation from major cultural institutions including the V&A Museum, British Library, National Portrait Gallery, JW3, and the National Holocaust Museum. The initiative is rooted in conversations with artists and cultural workers who felt Jewish life had become shaped by hostility, grief, and security concerns since 7 October 2023. The month is open to everyone, encouraging participation, learning, and shared meals.

Read at www.theguardian.com