Greater Manchester mayor Bev Craig has marked the first anniversary of the Heaton Park Synagogue attack, saying the city stands united against hatred. In a reflection published on Yom Kippur, she paid tribute to the two men killed and the congregation, and honoured those who fought back against the attacker.
Two Mancunians killed in targeted attack
Adrian Daulby and Melvin Cravitz were killed and several more people were injured when a terrorist launched an attack targeting Jewish people on the holiest day of the Jewish year. The victims were attacked at their place of worship simply for being Jewish.
Craig described the day as a dark and sad one for the city, and said her thoughts are with the families of Adrian and Melvin, and of Andrew, Bernard and Yoni, who were seriously injured, as well as the whole congregation.
Heroes who held the doors shut
She highlighted the courage shown in the worst moments, particularly the bravery of those who rushed to hold shut the doors of the synagogue, putting themselves in harm's way to protect their friends, families and community.
Craig repeated the words she spoke at last year's vigil, saying that in the city region, an attack on one of us is an attack on us all. She said the city won't stand for it, and that people are bound together by the values of tolerance, fairness and respect, regardless of background.
Rising hate and the spirit of Greater Manchester
She noted that hate on the streets is on the rise, with Jewish friends and neighbours telling her they are scared to go about their daily lives. She described metal barriers and security surrounding schools, a patient going into hospital feeling the need to hide their Star of David, and people worried about walking to their place of worship.
Craig said the piece was about remembering, not about the actions being taken to tackle hatred and root out antisemitism. She said in memory of Adrian and Melvin, the city must recommit to the real spirit of Greater Manchester, which celebrates all different communities, defies those who try to divide, and works together to build the place. She described that as the Greater Manchester she loves and the spirit she sees in every community.
