Standing in solidarity
"We will stand with you every day. Our government, our society, does not tolerate racism and will never tolerate antisemitism."
A HIGHLY charged Israel solidarity rally at Caulfield Park in Melbourne last Friday attracted a crowd of around 5000.
The turnout was good despite the rainy conditions and calls from a former Hamas leader for Friday to be a “Day of Jihad”.
Premier Jacinta Allan and Opposition Leader John Pesutto both addressed the rally, organised by Zionism Victoria and Habayit on behalf of all the principal Jewish community organisations.
Allan said she was aware that the Jewish community continues to face hate.
“We will stand with you every day. Our government, our society, does not tolerate racism and will never tolerate antisemitism. My door remains open to you and your leaders and I am prepared to offer you any support you need to stay safe on our streets, in your schools and in your homes,” she said.
Pesutto said, “I look at the sea of people here today from all walks of life, not just the proud Jewish community here but everyone, different religions and faiths, different racial and ethnic backgrounds, all joining with you because at the end of the day, my dear friends, we all share that common bond of humanity and what happens to you happens to me, and what matters to you matters to me.”
The rally also heard from a member of Kibbutz Kfar Aza, Keren Lewinsohn, who described some of the terrible things that people she knew had endured.
Zionism Victoria executive director Zeddy Lawrence said there were some initial issues with the audio reaching those at the back of the crowd, but that was soon sorted out, and the rally was both emotional and electrifying.
“We were truly heartened by the condemnation of the terror atrocities from the Premier, echoed by all the politicians who took to the stage. And we wept as those who were personally impacted by last weekend’s brutal attacks shared their stories,” he said.
Along with federal and state politicians from many parties, there were leaders of other multicultural and religious communities represented, including Hindu, Catholic, Buddhist, Anglican, Iranian and others including leaders from the Ethnic Communities Council.
A large contingent of Victoria Police ensured the rally was kept safe, and people going to shule afterwards for services were provided with extra security.
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