CSG thanks Victoria Police

The Community Security Group (CSG) and Jewish community leaders gathered with Victoria Police for “Shmooze with the Blues” for lunch at the Sassoon Yehuda Sephardi Synagogue on September 4.

The event occurred amid rising antisemitism and revelations that Iran was responsible for at least two attacks on Australia including the arson attack on the Adass Israel synagogue. It also took place following the recent killing of two police officers in the line of duty – and a minute’s silence was held to honour their service.

CSG CEO Justin Kagan said, “On behalf of the Community Security Group and the Victorian Jewish community, we offer our heartfelt condolences to their families, their colleagues and every member of Victoria Police.

“We stand with you as you have stood with us.”

Discussing increased antisemitism Kagan said, “Over the past two years, antisemitism has accelerated at a pace we’ve not seen in our lifetimes, from school gates and university campuses to our streets and museums.”

Kagan thanked Victoria Police for its efforts to protect the Jewish community.

“CSG exists to protect Jewish life and Jewish way of life,” he said. “But we do not do this alone. We do it with you, our partners, our allies, our friends together … Thank you for your courage, your compassion and your commitment to keeping our community safe.”

Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner for the Southern Metro Region Chris Gilbert thanked CSG for “bringing us together” and said, “The reason we’re here today … and the reason we attend events right across the spectrum for the community is because we are committed to the Jewish community in Victoria.”

The Assistant Commissioner said there will be increased police presence over the High Holy Days.

“We just want to give you that assurance that we are understanding of what the community is needing … and we’re here with you today because we’ve got long standing relationships, those relationships that stand the test of time,” Gilbert said.

Other speakers included Victoria Police Divisional Manager Dan Goodhart, who is also the deputy chairperson of the Victorian Police Jewish Network. He said, “I’m pleased to report that Victoria Police is a very supportive place to work as a Jewish community member. And unfortunately, this statement is not true for many Australian Jews working at large organisations across this country.”

The president of Sassoon Yehuda Joanne Levy conveyed the diversity within the Jewish community, speaking of Sephardi traditions, and noting that this year marks the 60th anniversary of the Sephardi Association of Victoria.