Michael Scott’s Powerful Call to Action at ‘Enough is Enough’
On Sunday, 15 December, the Australian Jewish community and its allies gathered in unity at the ‘Enough is Enough’ rally. This event, held against the backdrop of a deeply troubling rise in antisemitic incidents across the country, was a poignant reminder of the power of collective action. Organised by Together With Israel, the rally brought people of diverse faiths and backgrounds together to demand safety, dignity, and justice for all.
Michael Scott, founder and CEO of The 2023 Foundation and a 30-year veteran of the Australian Army, was among the keynote speakers, delivering a compelling address that resonated deeply with those in attendance and beyond.
Standing Together in Challenging Times
The event came in response to a series of shocking antisemitic acts, including vandalism, protests targeting places of worship, and the abhorrent arson of a synagogue. As these incidents intensified, so too did the determination of the community to declare: Enough is enough.
Michael’s speech encapsulated this spirit, highlighting the urgent need for action and emphasising values, honesty, and agency as essential tools to combat hate. Addressing the rally, he stated, “We are living in Orwellian times, and all of us have a responsibility to speak up, stand up, and counter the false narratives that are gaining traction in mainstream media.”
A Vision of Unity and Advocacy
Drawing from his extensive experience, including time spent living in Jerusalem, Michael shared a vision for how individuals can make a tangible difference. He acknowledged the wide range of voices standing in solidarity with the Jewish community, from Lebanese Christians to Coptic Christians and Australians of varied backgrounds who, like him, stand with Israel.
Michael underscored the importance of visiting Israel to witness its reality firsthand and then returning to share those truths. He also recommended resources such as COGAT (Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories) to access factual information on Israel’s humanitarian efforts.
An Existential Fight for Values
“While Israel is fighting a war of existence on seven fronts, we too—not just the Jewish diaspora but the West and our values—are fighting an existential war for the type of country we want to live in,” Michael said. He framed the fight against antisemitism as part of a broader battle to uphold the principles of fairness, truth, and mutual respect that define Australian society.
Michael’s call was not about politics but about protecting shared values and fostering an Australia where hatred finds no refuge. “Together, we will prevail,” he concluded, urging attendees to use their voices and agency to make a difference.
A Moment of Reflection and Resolve
The rally concluded with a solemn reading of the names of hostages still held captive, underscoring the event’s themes of resilience, solidarity, and hope. The ‘Enough is Enough’ rally was more than just a moment of protest—it was a clarion call for all Australians to stand united against hate and to work towards a future where everyone can live free from fear.
The 2023 Foundation remains committed to this mission, fostering education, advocacy, and harm minimisation initiatives to combat antisemitism and other forms of bigotry. As Michael Scott’s words reminded us, this fight belongs to everyone. Together, we can create an Australia that reflects the very best of our values.