Lord Mann, Rabbi Charley Baginsky and Lee Harpin

Progressive Judaism Co-Lead Rabbi Charley Baginsky (pictured above), Rabbi Laura Janner-Klausner and Rabbi Deborah Blausten addressed the Jewish Labour Movement (JLM) One Day Conference 2025.

Rabbi Charley spoke alongside Lord John Mann, the Government’s Independent Antisemitism Adviser, in a session titled Counter-Extremism in 2025, which was chaired by Jewish News Political Editor Lee Harpin.

They discussed the threats posed to the community by both far-left and far-right extremism, the importance of interfaith dialogue to address these issues, and the need for community-led solutions.

They advocated for a broader definition of extremism that transcends ideological labels and focuses on actions that incite harm, deepen division and/or undermine democratic values.

Justice Minister Sarah Sackman visits Kathryn Forro on the Progressive Judaism stall

Rabbi Charley then joined Rabbi David Mason – the Orthodox rabbi who serves as the Executive Director of HIAS+JCORE – in a discussion on refugees and the importance of embodying Jewish values such as justice, compassion, and welcoming the stranger.

Rabbi Laura led a keynote conversation with Attorney General Richard Hermer. In addition to a lengthy discussion on the war in Israel/Gaza, they also spoke about the Reform youth movement RSY-Netzer, where Rabbi Laura had been the Attorney General’s madrichah (leader).

Rabbi Deborah participated in a panel discussion titled Different Perspectives on Assisted Dying. She joined Dr Peter Prinsley MP, Adam Langleben and Joel Rosen (Chair) for the discussion.

There were more than 450 delegates to the conference, including Justice Minister Sarah Sackman MP, Development Minister Anneliese Dodds MP, Middle East Minister Hamish Falconer MP and Health Minister Wes Streeting MP

Progressive Judaism also hosted a stall at the JLM Conference, run by Senior Executive Assistant Kathryn Forro, further emphasising the importance of the Progressive Jewish voice and representation.