Mascot mayhem at bar mitzvah
'The club is aware of a matter that occurred at a private event, and has taken the appropriate steps to address it.'
The Carlton AFL Club last week promptly terminated its relationship with a man working as mascot “Captain Carlton”, following an alleged antisemitic incident at a young Blues fan’s bar mitzvah reception in Melbourne less than a fortnight ago.
The club enjoys a very significant and loyal following among Melbourne’s Jewish community, going back to the early to mid 20th Century, when many called the Carlton area home.
It acted swiftly after it was confirmed that the man had fled the reception prior to his planned surprise appearance on stage that he was hired for, upon learning during the bar mitzvah boy’s speech that he would be selflessly donating gifted money received from guests to a charity that helps seriously injured Israeli soldiers.
The man was allegedly overheard to say “I’m not doing this for f—ing Zios” – referring to Zionists.
His walkout shocked guests, including senior Carlton members, and Jewish community leaders, including Zionist Federation of Australia president Jeremy Leibler.
“He will never work at the club again,” a source confirmed to the Herald Sun.
In a statement, Carlton Football Club said it “exists as a united, inclusive, and values-led club, and are committed to fostering a respectful environment for all members of our community.
“The club is aware of a matter that occurred at a private event, and has taken the appropriate steps to address it.
“The matter has now been closed out and resolved with all parties involved.”
Dvir Abramovich, chair of the Anti-Defamation Commission, praised Carlton’s decisive action.
“They said no to hate, no to prejudice, [and] no to the idea that being Jewish, or supporting Israel, makes you a target,” he said.