Become a Member

By

Lucy Tobin,

Lucy Tobin

Opinion

Don't moan — include us in

June 27, 2011 09:26
2 min read

Those who like to moan about generation Y's religious hiatus need only gaze around a synagogue of a Saturday morning. Amid the kippot hiding bald patches and the kids released from children's services to scout for kiddush crisps, there might be a sprinkling of youthful newlyweds or keen 20-somethings, but not many.

Likewise, a squint at the executives of the Board of Deputies (motto "proud to represent the community" so, surely, a microcosm of British Jewry) reveals most are eligible for Freedom Passes.

"How appalling," whinge Mr and Mrs Community Elder. "They don't go to shul, they don't do their bit - yet another example of the self-obsession of youth."

But woah there, rein in the high horses. I'm a model member of generation Y (graduated into the recession: tick. Almost certainly working until I commute with a Zimmer frame due to the budget deficit: tick). And I come bearing good news: there's nothing apathetic about our engagement with Judaism. You just have to know where to look.

To get more from opinion, click here to sign up for our free Editor's Picks newsletter.