Green councillors in Trafford have publicly distanced themselves from their national party's controversial new policy on Zionism, warning that it could negatively affect Jewish communities and undermine efforts to support Palestinians.
In a strongly worded statement, seven Green councillors, including representatives of Altrincham, said they were "deeply saddened" by the decision to adopt the motion at the party's national conference on Sunday.
The motion, entitled Zionism is Racism, was passed by 1,022 votes to 813 at the Green Party conference in Brighton.
It formally establishes the Greens as an anti-Zionist party, defines Zionism as a form of racism and supports the creation of a single democratic Palestinian state across historic Palestine, with Jerusalem as its capital.
But Trafford's Green councillors have made clear they oppose aspects of the policy, particularly its position on Palestinian statehood and its definition of Zionism.
In a joint statement, they said: "Trafford Green Party's councillors are deeply saddened by the passing of the Zionism is Racism motion.
"As Green Party councillors we are not obliged to support national party policies, and we want to make clear our opposition in this case."
The councillors said they were concerned the motion could have unintended consequences for Trafford's Jewish population.
"While we understand this was not the intention, we worry that this motion, especially the way some aspects are worded, will impact on our Jewish communities.
"We know they have real fears and are in need of support. As local councillors we will continue to do what we can to fight antisemitism and work to make Trafford a safe and welcoming place for all."
They also challenged the motion's support for a single Palestinian state, arguing that the future of the region should be determined by those who live there.
"We believe it is not for us to make this call," they said.
The councillors added that Zionism had been interpreted in different ways by scholars over many years and argued that the motion's attempt to define it was an oversimplification.
They said their opposition to the motion did not diminish their longstanding support for Palestinians.
The statement highlighted their campaigning against Israeli government actions in Gaza, their scrutiny of council pension investments and their support for boycott, divestment and sanctions.
"We oppose the atrocities of the Netanyahu-led Israeli government and believe in dignity, freedom and self-determination for all," they said.
The seven signatories are Geraldine Coggins, Aaron Fradley, Dan Jerrome, Jane Leicester, Gareth Twose, Jennie Wadsworth and Michael Welton.
The national party's decision has prompted criticism from Jewish organisations and divisions within the Greens themselves.
The Green Party has defended the policy, saying its members had engaged in a serious debate and reaffirming its commitment to equality, human rights and opposition to racism.
