Image of Susy (pictured left) receiving the Jewish Workplace Champion award from Noah Katz, Jewish Staff Network Support Officer at the Board of Deputies. The picture is courtesy of the Board of Deputies of British Jews and Sam Pearce.
On Tuesday 9 September, Susy Goldstone-Brady, a steward from UNISON’s Bucks Area branch, attended a one-day conference held in London by the Board of Deputies (BoD) of British Jews.
BoD@Work was the first conference of its kind, and brought Jewish workers together from various industries, the majority being from the public sector, to discuss the challenges of being Jewish in a non-Jewish workplace, and share experiences. There were workshops and attendees heard from guest speakers including Lord John Mann and Dame Tamara Finkelstein.
At the end of the conference Susy was recognised as a “Jewish Workplace Champion” along with four other attendees, for making a positive difference to Jewish colleagues in the workplace.
BoD award winner Susy Goldstone-Brady said: “Since I first became active in UNISON two years ago, I have been continually trying to raise awareness of the Jewish community in the union and call out antisemitism.
“Whether it be speaking at conferences, bringing the issues to my branch committee and working with them to write motions, or speaking with members of the NEC, this is a topic I am hugely passionate about.
“I have had countless conversations with many people in the Jewish community about UNISON, and have been saddened by stories of people leaving the union, or not joining in the first place. The reason sometimes given for this is that they do not feel safe to exist freely and openly as Jews in UNISON. This is a real problem, and one that I have been trying to shout from the rooftops to anyone who will listen.”
In December 2024 Susy began working with the BoD and heard about similar stories in other trade unions and workplaces. The organisation has been incredibly supportive to Susy and her mission to speak out wherever she can.
Susy continued: “I was honoured and humbled to be presented with a Jewish Workplace Champion award.
“It can be difficult to feel that I have made any tangible difference so far, but the BoD’s continued support and belief that my UNISON activism can and will yield results if we keep going is truly inspiring and I know that if any of my words manage to reach even one person, then it’s all worth it.
“I am determined to keep pushing for equality for Jewish trade unionists. Jewish workers were instrumental in the growth of the British trade union movement 150 years ago, and I am determined to ensure that we continue to build on this legacy.
“I am hopeful that the new Hebrew year 5786 will bring Jewish UNISON members peace, strength, and the courage to stand up against hatred.”
UNISON Bucks Area Branch Secretary Richard White said “We’re all incredibly proud of Susy and the stand she’s making against antisemitism. We all have a responsibility to combat the rise in antisemitic attacks we have seen in recent months and we stand together against all forms of racism and discrimination.
“I’ve seen first-hand the courage it takes for Susy to stand up and challenge antisemitism and the toll that takes on her. She’s incredibly brave and a worthy winner of this award.
“I encourage any UNISON member that has experienced or witnessed antisemitism to contact their local branch for advice and support and work with us to show there’s no place antisemitism in our union or society.”
If any Jewish members would like to connect with Susy, please email southeast@unison.co.uk, and we will put you in touch.
