Langton labelled a ‘Zio’

Laureate Professor Marcia Langton told the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion last week that she was branded a “Zio” by the pro-Palestine movement in Melbourne, had her car windows smashed, and has been effectively silenced in public debate.

Langton, a Yiman and Bidjara woman and Melbourne Laureate Professor, said speakers had withdrawn from panels she was listed to appear on, and international figures had been told she was a “Zio”.

“They will not allow any debate of the issues by labelling me as a Zio. I’m therefore made voiceless in the debate,” she said, describing the term as illogical and “another form of xenophobia”.

While she said she was horrified by and opposed to what is happening in Gaza, Langton said that could not excuse the treatment of Jewish Australians.

“The foul treatment of Jewish Australians cannot be justified by saying that Israel is doing this in Gaza. They’re Australians. This is our country. This is where we have to treat each other properly,” she said.