The British Museum has postponed a lecture scheduled as part of Jewish Culture Month due to concerns that the event could be disrupted by protesters. The talk, which was due to take place on Thursday, May 28th will now be rescheduled for a later date that has yet to be announced.
A lecture concerning ancient Israel and Judah was set to be delivered in the museum’s BP lecture theatre by Dr Paul Collins, the institution’s keeper of the Middle East department. It was expected to explore the archaeology and history of the ancient kingdoms of Israel and Judah using artefacts from the museum’s collection, including references to events such as the Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem and the Maccabean revolt.
According to the museum, the decision was taken less than 24 hours before the event after it was informed that a “significant proportion” of registered attendees were believed to be individuals intending to deliberately disrupt proceedings. The museum said the move followed discussions with organisers and security partners.
In its statement, the British Museum stressed that it fully supports lawful protest and freedom of expression. However, it added that it also has a duty to ensure events can take place safely and without intimidation. The museum said the postponement was intended to protect both audience experience and the integrity of the programme.
The museum confirmed it will continue to support Jewish Culture Month, which runs until June th and includes more than 100 events across the UK.
This drew criticism from Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch, who said publicly funded institutions should ensure events proceed, arguing that the postponement sends the wrong message:
This decision achieves precisely the opposite.
BBC historian Simon Schama called the move “cowardice” and said it sends a “terrible message.” The Board of Deputies of British Jews said it was “highly regrettable” that attempts had been made to disrupt the event, adding:
We will not allow the actions of extremists to prevent the British public from enjoying these events.
