Join us for a fascinating talk with Gavin Schaffer, Professor of Modern British History at Manchester Metropolitan University and author of a bold new book, “An Unorthodox History: British Jews since 1945”.

Exploring the complexities of inclusion and exclusion, Gavin’s new book shines a light on groups that have been marginalised within Jewish history and culture, such as queer Jews, Jews married to non-Jews, Israel-critical Jews and even Messianic Jews, while offering a fresh look at Jewish activism and Jewish religiosity.

Weaving these stories together, Gavin Schaffer invites us to see Jewish Britons as a connected whole, offering a thoughtful perspective amid ongoing conversations about Jewish identity and belonging. Challenging the idea that British Jewish life is in terminal decline, “An Unorthodox History” demonstrates that Jewish Britain is thriving and that Jewishness is deeply embedded in the country’s history and culture.

The conversation will be led by Sherry Ashworth and there will be an opportunity for questions from the audience.

ABOUT THE SPEAKERS

Gavin Schaffer is Professor of Modern British History, and Head of the School of History, Politics and Philosophy, at Manchester Metropolitan University.

Sherry Ashworth is an alumna of the University of Manchester, where she was awarded an MA in Jewish Studies and subsequently a doctorate in 2023 for her research on the Book of Esther and the nineteenth century novel. She writes fiction and continues to research biblical narrative. She lives in Manchester and is a volunteer guide at the Museum.