Jewish Comedian Expelled from London Writing Group Over Zionist Beliefs

A Jewish comedian in London was expelled from a writing group after admitting to being a Zionist, sparking a legal warning from UK Lawyers for Israel (UKLFI). Harry Deansway, who participated in the Offbeat Writers' Group in north London for six months, was told by group leader Ruby Sullivan that there was "no room" for him due to his political views.

According to UKLFI, Sullivan questioned Deansway about his stance on Israel, stating she was "very pro-Palestinian" and that their political differences would hinder collaboration. Deansway replied that he is Jewish and a Zionist who supports Palestinian rights, defining Zionism as the right of the Jewish people to self-determination in their ancestral homeland alongside opposition to suffering caused to Palestinians.

Ideological Loyalty Test

In subsequent correspondence, Sullivan allegedly wrote: "I really cannot resonate with your beliefs, because they support the massacre of an entire population." She added that he had no place in the group and reportedly planned to introduce an "apartheid-free zone" pledge for prospective members.

UKLFI argued that the expulsion violates the UK Equality Act by discriminating against Deansway based on his Jewish origin, religion, and belief in Jewish self-determination. The organization also condemned Sullivan's remark holding Jewish people collectively responsible for Israel's actions, which aligns with the IHRA working definition of antisemitism.

Cancellation of Literary Event

The dispute led to the cancellation of a literary event organized by Deansway at a north London pub after Sullivan and other members withdrew. Pub owners denied discrimination, stating the event was canceled due to a shift in its nature and a lack of communication, though they refused to reschedule.

UKLFI characterized the incident as "McCarthyism disguised as progressive politics," emphasizing that Jewish artists should not have to undergo political purity tests to participate in London's cultural life.

"I never thought being excluded just for being a Zionist, a word that through relentless propaganda has been turned into a symbol of all evil, would happen, though it's not surprising," Deansway wrote in The Telegraph.