Jewish advocacyStanding against antisemitism

Alex Ryvchin at the B’nai B’rith Human Rights Oration

Alex Ryvchin will explore the realities of modern antisemitism, the forces driving its resurgence, and steps we can take to combat it.

ECAJ co-CEO Alex Ryvchin. Photo: Giselle Haber
ECAJ co-CEO Alex Ryvchin. Photo: Giselle Haber

With antisemitism on the rise globally and here in Australia, this year’s B’nai B’rith Human Rights Oration on April 6 will feature renowned author, advocate, and Executive Council of Australian Jewry (ECAJ) co-CEO Alex Ryvchin, who will explore the realities of modern antisemitism, the forces driving its resurgence, and the concrete steps we can take to combat it.

“Alex Ryvchin is one of the country’s leading voices on Jewish advocacy, and his insights promise to be both powerful and thought provoking,” B’nai B’rith Victoria CEO Ellana Aarons commented.

Ryvchin was born in Kyiv, Ukraine, and his family left the Soviet Union for Australia as ref- ugees and refuseniks in 1987. Since studying and practising law, Ryvchin has written acclaimed books including The Anti-Israel Agenda Inside the Political War on the Jewish State (2017), Zionism: The Concise History (2019) and The Seven Deadly Myths Antisemitism from the Time of Christ to Kanye West (2023).

He became co-chief of ECAJ in 2018, and in this position has advo- cated on behalf of the Australian Jewish community, writing articles in a range of publications and speaking to the media.

This role has taken on increas- ing importance in the aftermath of October 7 and amid resurgent antisemitism. Ryvchin’s former home was targeted by antisemitic vandalism and arson in January 2025.

Ryvchin’s advocacy and writing has seen him recognised as Australian of the Year for 2024 by The Australian newspaper, as one of 25 global Jewish visionaries by The Jerusalem Post and ranked 38th in the Daily Telegraph’s Sydney Power 100 for 2024.

Aarons said this event is a call to action. “All proceeds from the event will go directly to support- ing individuals and organisations actively combating antisemitism in our community.

“By attending and donating, you’re not only enriching your understanding you’re making a tangible difference.”

Ryvchin said, “It is a deep hon- our to deliver the annual oration for B’nai B’rith. This is an organisation I greatly admire for its steadfastness and for being active at every moment of peril and need for the Jewish people.

“At a time when the rights Jews have fought so long and hard for are again at stake, I look forward to presenting my views on Zionism and Jewish human rights and tak- ing inspiration from the ability of B’nai B’rith to always stand for what’s right and fight on through whatever challenges that arise.”

To book visit: events.humanitix.com/oration25

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