Jewish Contribution to Leeds

The Jews (exemplified by Anglo-Jewry) have always made great contributions not only to Jewish life, but to the cities in which they inhabit. This is particularly true of Leeds as the following quote from the Thomas Jessop, Lord Mayor of Leeds in 1956 testifies. This was printed in the brochure commeorating the tercentenary of the Jews in the British Isles.

I am proud to record that during the course of my life I have had a long and happy association with members of the Jewish Community and i have never at any time regarded the Jews as a separate race, but individually and collectively, as members of one human family.

We all have most things in common and particularly when one views the position from a civic aspect. The same liberties and privileges are extended to every citizen, who in turn must recognise the responsibilities and duties which all rights inevitably bring.

Members of the Jewish Community have taken a full and important part in the administration of our City and in almost every field of voluntary endeavour......

...There is no doubt that mankind is the richer for the public service which Jews have given and are giving to the City....