Diplomat meets Melbourne Jewish leaders
US diplomat Erika Olson met Jewish leaders, warning rising antisemitism makes “Never again” a call to action.
The US Chargée d’Affaires Erika Olson met with Jewish leaders at St Kilda Shule on January 28. Olson said it was an honour to visit the shule during the week of International Holocaust Remembrance Day.
“Rising antisemitism, including in the form of Holocaust distortion and denial, make remembrance urgent today. ‘Never again’ is a call to action; it must not become an empty slogan.
“Fortunately, St Kilda Shule is doing meaningful work each and every day in the community to support survivors and ensure the Holocaust is never denied or erased,” Olson said.
She added the US is committed to standing against antisemitism around the world, stating: “The United States’ enduring commitment, expressed in our annual commemoration of International Holocaust Remembrance Day … reflects our resolve.
“In the words of President Trump, to ‘build a society that always values the sanctity of every human life and the dignity of every faith’.
“The United States will always counter antisemitism worldwide, champion justice for Holocaust survivors and heirs, and defend the integrity of Holocaust memory. Light will win.”
St Kilda Shule’s Rabbi Yaakov Glasman said it was an honour for the shule to have been visited by the Chargée d’Affaires, to check in with the Jewish community during her brief visit to Melbourne.
“Erika Olson is a wonderful human being who brings empathy and dignity to her role, over and above the outstanding professionalism with which she represents the United States here in Australia,” Rabbi Glasman said.
“She took great interest in St Kilda Shule’s historic menorah, first kindled here in St Kilda in 1880, illustrating the presence and contribution of Jews in this state over two decades before federation. Jews do have a special place in this country and Erika appeared very moved by this fact.”
Jewish Community Council of Victoria president Philip Zajac remarked, “We continue to be grateful for the outpouring of support in these difficult weeks following the Bondi attack, including from the US embassy.
“We can only combat antisemitism with the help of allies and friends.”