On 15 April 2024, the University of Westminster hosted a memorable Seder as part of the World in Westminster Café series, drawing students, faculty and community members together for an evening of cultural exchange and education.
The event, held in the Pavilion on Cavendish Campus, was the first of its kind at the University and featured a mock Seder complete with explanations of the rituals and ceremonial foods, followed by a light fully Kosher dinner.
Debs Harris warmly guided attendees through the Seder, and, joined by David Cutner, explained each step and its significance in Jewish tradition. The participants had the opportunity to taste traditional foods such as matzah (unleavened bread) and maror (bitter herbs), all of which were Kosher.
The atmosphere was one of openness and cultural appreciation. The event concluded with a light Kosher dinner, allowing further mingling and discussion.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Global Engagement and Employability Professor Dibyesh Anand, who leads the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) programme named Community and Communities: Supporting and Celebrating Diversity at the University of Westminster, opened the evening with a warm welcome, informing the attendees of the World in Westminster Café series.
Professor Anand said: “Celebrating different cultures and festivals helps our colleagues and students develop a stronger sense of belonging within our University; it is even more vital for communities that are minoritised. Experiencing Seder that is part of the Jewish holiday of Passover for the first time was personally very humbling for me. We all can learn so much from each other and from different cultures, and this is what our World in Westminster Café series aims to do."
Debs Harris, who led the Seder, said: “It was an absolute honour to facilitate this Mock Seder and show a piece of my culture to others. It is a mitzvah (good deed) to invite others into your home to celebrate Passover, and I think this was the next best thing. Thanks to David Cutner for leading all of the prayers, and to everyone who attended for engaging and participating. It was a lovely event with a very joyful atmosphere. I'm sure this will be repeated!”
The World in Westminster Café series will continue to be a valuable and cherished part of University of Westminster tradition.
Explore the upcoming Equality, Diversity and Inclusion events.
