When Prime Minister Anthony Albanese appointed Jillian Segal, a former president of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, as Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism, I wonder if he anticipated the divisiveness of her role.
In our multicultural nation, combating antisemitism, like all forms of racism, is crucial for our societal health and growth.
However, if Segal’s role indirectly challenges our democratic right to peaceful protest, this could set a dangerous precedent.
Segal’s position on protests, suggesting designated areas “away from where the Jewish community might ventureâ€, is particularly troubling.
It implies potential segregation in Sydney, a city that prides itself on its integrated, multicultural community. It is vital for Segal to recognise that many Jews join the weekly protests in support of Palestinian liberation and to demand an end to the atrocities being committed by Israel against Gaza.
We stand in solidarity with our fellow Australians who are watching their families in Gaza suffer unspeakable horrors.
I write from a unique standpoint: my name literally means “woman of Judeaâ€.
I’m a history graduate with a focus on the Holocaust and I’ve been vocally opposed to all racism, including antisemitism, my entire life.
Most significantly, I’m a regular at the weekly pro-Palestine protests on Gadigal County, where I voice my dissent against the actions of the Israeli state, actions which the United Nations has identified as a plausible case of genocide.
Criticising the actions of a state and its policies should not be mistaken for antisemitism.
My participation in these protests stems from a deep-seated belief in justice and human rights, values instilled in me by my heritage.
My great-grandparents escaped the pogroms in Eastern Europe and relatives perished in the Holocaust. Their memories compel me to oppose oppression in all forms.
At these gatherings, Jews, including the Jews Against the Occupation ’48 group — of which I am a member — come together in horror at the ongoing injustices we see perpetrated.
We are welcomed with warmth and affection by people from all backgrounds, unified in our stand against oppression. This solidarity is visible and palpable, contradicting any claims of intimidation or threat to the Jewish community.
Each week, we are not just attendees, but active participants whose contributions are met with cheers and appreciation.
Jewish speakers frequently address the crowd, articulating our shared anguish and hope for peace. We carry signs stating, “Never again meant for anybody†or “Not in our name,†a reminder of our commitment to universal human rights.
The argument that these protests could be intimidating to Jews is unfounded.
On the contrary, every mention of our community at these events is met with gratitude, not hostility.
The atmosphere is one of amity and mutual respect, a far cry from the isolation some fear.
We are hugged, thanked and photographed by fellow protesters acknowledging our support — a powerful testament to the inclusive nature of these movements.
We cry with our Palestinian friends, we chant with them, and we call out “Shame†with them as we hear stories of atrocities perpetrated against their families.
What is intimidating is the suggestion by Segal, NSW Senator Dave Sharma and others not to protest what we see as crimes against humanity. That feels like an affront to our very identity as Jews who stand with the oppressed.
We stand not only as Jews but as individuals with conviction, drawing on the painful lessons of our past to advocate for a better future.
The protests also serve as a vital outlet for expressing our fears and frustrations with the current situation. They provide a space where we can share that distress with newly found friends.
Each Sunday, our chants resonate with a clear message: “We are the people; We won’t be silenced; Stop the bombing nowâ€.
These words are not just slogans; they are a call to action — a demand for our leaders to recognise and address the horrific loss of innocent lives.
Only through inclusive engagement can we hope to address the complex issues at the heart of these protests, ensuring that every voice is heard and respected. Perhaps Segal should attend. She can walk with us and see for herself.
[Judith Avril is a member of Jews Against the Occupation ’48 Australia.]