Via Engage comes the sad news that Steve Cohen, a British Jewish socialist and campaigner against racism and antisemitism, has passed away.

I first read Steve’s book on left antisemitism - the brilliantly-titled That’s Funny, You Don’t Look Antisemitic - when I was a student at Manchester University in the mid-1980s and, even now, I still consult it from time to time. I never got the opportunity to meet him, but going by some of his writings, I guess we would have disagreed on quite a few things. Nonetheless, if someone’s personality can be reflected in their writing, then I always pictured Steve as an individual who was witty, combative and deserving of respect.

We are all a little poorer for his passing. And while I’m certain that, like me, Steve was not a remotely religious man, I’d like to offer Steve’s family and friends the traditional words of consolation which Jews recite to those who are grieving: “May the Lord comfort you with all the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.”

Z Word readers in the north of England will want to be aware of the Commemoration Meeting for Steve on Thursday 12 March at 5.00 at Manchester Town Hall. This is to be confirmed, so keep checking Engage for details.