We Have Agency – Let’s Use It!
Antisemitism is rising, and with it comes a critical moment for all Australians to take a stand against hate. In a recent article for The Australian Jewish News, Michael Scott, founder of The 2023 Foundation, shared a powerful call to action. He reminded us that “every Australian has a crucial role to play in ensuring that hatred finds no refuge in our nation.”
Standing Together Against Antisemitism
Hatred thrives in silence, and the Jewish community in Australia is facing escalating challenges. From violent attacks to widespread misinformation, the rise of antisemitism today mirrors troubling trends from the past—trends that we must not allow to gain further ground.
Michael’s message is clear: antisemitism is more than hatred; it is criminal abuse. He emphasises the need for collective action, pointing to tools like the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism and Natan Sharansky’s “3D Test” to understand and confront this prejudice. These frameworks highlight how antisemitism often hides behind criticism of Israel, targeting the Jewish community under the guise of political discourse.
Learning from History
The Jewish community has long been a champion for others. Michael highlights pivotal moments in Australia’s history, such as Jewish leaders advocating for Indigenous rights. Figures like Ron Castan AM QC and Sir Isaac Isaacs stood at the forefront of transformative changes, including the landmark Mabo case and the push for national unity and justice.
However, despite their contributions to broader society, Michael notes the community’s ongoing struggle to defend itself against the growing tide of antisemitism. Now, it’s time for Australians of all backgrounds to join this fight and ensure that Jewish Australians are not left to face this challenge alone.
Advocacy from Early Allies
Michael’s article shines a light on the growing number of non-Jewish Australians who have stepped up to support the Jewish community. He highlights individuals such as:
Nova Peris, who has drawn parallels between the resilience of Indigenous and Jewish communities.
Warren Mundine, who advocates for Israel’s democratic values.
Gemma Tognini, who uses her media platform to expose antisemitism.
Chris Mitchell, who challenges media biases against Israel.
Mark Leach, fostering interfaith understanding.
Erin Molan, calling for inclusivity and accountability.
These allies are a testament to the broader Australian community’s potential to stand up for justice and unity. But as Michael stresses, their voices need support. Antisemitism is not just a Jewish issue; it threatens the values that underpin Australian society.
What Can You Do?
Michael’s article provides practical steps for combating antisemitism:
Ensure Safety: If you witness antisemitic abuse, prioritise the safety of those targeted and call 000 for immediate threats.
Document and Report: Record incidents and report them to police and anti-discrimination bodies.
Stay Engaged: Follow up on reported incidents and escalate concerns if necessary.
Promote Education: Participate in community events, interfaith dialogues, and initiatives that highlight Jewish history and culture.
A Call to Action
Standing against antisemitism isn’t just about solidarity with the Jewish community—it’s about defending the core values of fairness, tolerance, and mutual respect that define Australia. Every voice matters in this fight.
As Michael reminds us, “History has shown that when one community is targeted, the very fabric of society is at risk.” Let’s use our agency to ensure that hatred finds no refuge in our nation.
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