Birkbeck Institute for the Study of Antisemitism receives further funding boost
Funding from the Open Society Foundations will support BISA’s research, policy, and public engagement work.
The Birkbeck Institute for the Study of Antisemitism (BISA), University of London has received a major grant of USD$650,000 from the Open Society Foundations (OSF). BISA is the only research centre in the UK located in a university dedicated to the study of antisemitism. The Institute is known internationally for its innovative work on the causes and nature of antisemitism.
This additional funding will enable BISA to promote understanding and awareness of antisemitism as one form of racialization and racism. The institute’s extensive programme of research, policy and public engagement will foster cultural change and contribute to alliance-building between Jewish people and other racialised minorities. Dr Brendan McGeever joins Professor David Feldman, current Director of BISA, as Co-Director of the Institute.
Leonard Benardo, Vice President of Open Society Foundations, noted: “BISA is not only a distinct outfit in the UK, but also a necessary one. With the debate on antisemitism drawing far more heat than light, and often more distortions than common sense, an institute with BISA's intellectual and moral commitments is of vital importance. We are honoured to partner with them.”
Professor Sally Wheeler, OBE Vice-Chancellor, Birkbeck, University of London, commented: “As the only independent university centre for research and teaching on antisemitism in the UK, it is important that the Birkbeck Institute for the Study of Antisemitism continues to contribute to knowledge, understanding, policy formation and public debate. We are extremely thankful to the Open Society Foundations for supporting it to do so.”
Professor David Feldman said: “We are grateful to the Open Society Foundations for its ongoing and generous support. Antisemitism is a subject of recurrent public concern and controversy both in the UK and globally. In this complex landscape BISA’s task is to combine a clear-sighted understanding of antisemitism with commitment to 360-degree anti-racism.”
BISA undertakes research, teaching, public outreach, and policy work. It provides expertise on contemporary antisemitism and the ways in which it can be combatted to a diverse range of institutions internationally. BISA receives funding from a variety of sources to support its research and teaching and to undertake specific projects. Funders include: the Alfred Landecker Foundation; Birkbeck, University of London; the Bonnart Trust; and Rothschild Foundation Hanadiv Europe.