Jewish communities across the globe observed their eighth annual Refugee Shabbat on March 13-14, 2026, a significant observance that underscored the enduring Jewish commitment to welcoming refugees and asylum seekers. The initiative, spearheaded by HIAS, the global Jewish humanitarian organization, saw participation from over 300 Jewish communities and 144 individuals across the United States, Canada, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. This year’s event took on heightened importance amidst a global surge in xenophobia and increasingly restrictive government policies that threaten to dismantle decades of progress in refugee resettlement.
A Tradition Rooted in Values: The Genesis of Refugee Shabbat
Refugee Shabbat, now a cornerstone of HIAS’s engagement efforts, emerged from a deep-seated belief within Jewish tradition that the imperative to welcome the stranger is not merely a charitable act but a fundamental ethical and religious obligation. The observance draws parallels between the historical experiences of Jewish people, many of whom have sought refuge throughout history, and the contemporary plight of individuals displaced by conflict, persecution, and natural disasters. The annual event serves as a powerful, visible reminder of these core values, translating them into concrete action and advocacy.
The initiative’s growth from its inception reflects a growing awareness within the Jewish community of the global refugee crisis and a desire to actively participate in solutions. In its inaugural year, the observance was a more modest affair, primarily involving a few congregations. However, through dedicated outreach and a growing sense of urgency, Refugee Shabbat has burgeoned into a global movement, engaging synagogues, community centers, and individuals in a shared mission of solidarity.
A Global Call to Action: Participation and Programming
The 2026 observance was marked by a diverse array of events, demonstrating the adaptability and creativity of participating communities. In the United States, where the previous year had seen significant policy shifts impacting refugees and immigrants, the Jewish community responded with unwavering resolve. Temple Israel of Hollywood in Los Angeles, a long-standing HIAS partner, hosted a particularly impactful Refugee Shabbat service and program. Led by Rabbi Lara Regev, the service highlighted the Jewish principle of welcome and celebrated the dedication of those actively involved in supporting newcomers. The event featured insights from HIAS CEO Beth Oppenheim and HIAS Rabbi-in-Residence Sarah Bassin, who provided crucial context on the current refugee resettlement landscape and outlined avenues for community engagement and action.
Rabbi Sarah Bassin reflected on the significance of the occasion, stating, "I was honored to share words of Torah to ground ourselves through an era of moral disorientation in which our values are challenged daily." This sentiment resonated across many communities, as participants sought to reaffirm their commitment to humanitarian principles in the face of challenging political climates.
Across the Atlantic, the United Kingdom witnessed a remarkable surge in participation for Refugee Shabbat. HIAS+JCORE, a partnership between HIAS and the Jewish Council for Racial Equality, reported a record 66 communities engaging in the observance, more than doubling the number from the previous year. This significant increase signals a potent countermovement against growing divisions surrounding immigration in the UK.
Yael Peleg, HIAS+JCORE’s Community Engagement Director, expressed her enthusiasm: "It is truly remarkable to have this many communities taking part in Refugee Shabbat this year. There is so much inspiring work being done across the Jewish community to welcome refugees, and Refugee Shabbat 2026 is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate it."
The programming in the UK was as varied as it was impactful. Events included an architectural tour showcasing buildings designed by refugee and immigrant architects in central London, a poignant exploration of the lives of Jewish refugees and immigrants at the historic Willesden Jewish Cemetery, and numerous educational discussions held within synagogues across the nation. These events collectively drew thousands of British Jews, fostering deeper understanding and engagement with the issues affecting refugees and immigrants.
Libi Sears, a refugee supporter and consultant with HIAS+JCORE partner Our Second Home, articulated a common sentiment: "There is so much misinformation and a lack of compassion when it comes to refugees. Discussions around refugees and asylum seekers often lack nuance and kindness. Empathy and humanity should be at the forefront of any discussion about refugees."
Spotlight on London: Culinary Diplomacy and Historical Reflections
One of the early events to mark Refugee Shabbat in the UK was a cooking event hosted by HIAS partner OLAM. Twenty supporters, including Libi Sears, participated in a session where Charity, a former Nigerian refugee, guided attendees in preparing a traditional meal with a vegan twist. Beyond the culinary experience, the event provided a platform for participants to learn directly about the work of HIAS and HIAS+JCORE and discover actionable ways to support refugees, asylum seekers, and displaced people within the UK.
"We should never stop talking about refugees," Libi Sears emphasized. "Refuge is a human right, and it is our responsibility as humans to provide compassion and safety."
Further underscoring the historical connection between Jewish identity and the refugee experience, Finchley Progressive Synagogue (FPS) held Refugee Shabbat services on Saturday morning. The services featured personal testimonies from former refugees from Syria, Ukraine, and Iran, who shared their experiences and offered factual insights into refugee resettlement and the asylum system in the UK.
Prior to the service, more than a dozen FPS members engaged in a deeply moving discussion with Lesley Urbach, whose mother and aunt were Jewish refugees from Germany who fled to the UK just before the outbreak of World War II. She shared the dais with Bahaa and Alaa Alibrahim, Syrian brothers who were supported by FPS upon their arrival in London.
"Immigrants contribute to this country," Lesley stated, her words echoing the sentiment of many who have found sanctuary. "Immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers can help develop this country, when given the opportunity."
Bahaa added a powerful personal perspective: "Not everyone knows how hard we work. Everyone who flees for their life has suffered and needs time to recover. Refugees are very important in running this country."
Broader Implications: Combating Fear with Compassion
The widespread participation in Refugee Shabbat 2026 serves as a critical bulwark against the rising tide of xenophobia and anti-immigrant sentiment globally. In a political climate where governments have increasingly adopted restrictive policies, the proactive stance of these Jewish communities offers a powerful counter-narrative. It highlights that welcoming refugees is not a political stance for some, but a moral imperative rooted in deeply held values.
The data from this year’s observance is particularly telling. The sheer volume of communities and individuals involved underscores a growing momentum within the Jewish diaspora to actively engage with refugee issues. This sustained engagement moves beyond symbolic gestures, encouraging advocacy, direct support, and educational initiatives designed to foster empathy and understanding.
The implications of Refugee Shabbat extend beyond the immediate participants. By organizing and publicizing these events, HIAS and its partners are not only mobilizing the Jewish community but also raising broader public awareness. The personal stories shared, the historical connections drawn, and the tangible actions taken all contribute to a more informed and compassionate public discourse on refugees and asylum seekers.
HIAS+JCORE Executive Director Rabbi David Mason summarized the overarching message: "There is no doubt that we’re living in a difficult period. But this Refugee Shabbat is a message of hope and a loud statement from the Jewish community that we are with refugees. Together, our values of compassion and solidarity are so much stronger than hate and division."
Looking Ahead: Sustaining the Momentum
As Refugee Shabbat concludes, the work of supporting refugees and displaced people continues year-round. The success of this eighth annual observance reinforces the vital role that faith-based organizations and community initiatives play in addressing complex humanitarian challenges. The commitment demonstrated by Jewish communities worldwide serves as an inspiration and a call to action for all who believe in a world where sanctuary and a fresh start are available to those in need. The ongoing efforts are crucial in counteracting the narrative of fear with a message of hope, resilience, and shared humanity, ensuring that the principles of welcome remain central to global efforts to support those forced to flee their homes.
