The ADC has condemned the decision by the NSW Young Greens to boycott the Australian Union of Jewish Students. The NSW Young Greens informed the peak body that it will not attend any of its events because of its support for Israel. According to news reports, NSW Young Greens co-convener Kleon Toffetti said, “ We have a longstanding position of not supporting this organisation because … they support the occupation of Palestine¬ illegally.”
Dr Dvir Abramovich, Chairman of the ADC, issued the following statement:
“We share the outrage of AUJS, and strongly condemn this wrong-headed, exclusionary and biased decision that promotes a simplistic approach to the complex Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The NSW Young Greens have chosen to align themselves with the divisive and fundamentally unconstructive BDS movement and their shameful actions show blatant disregard to the welfare of Jewish students since this policy will further fuel the climate of Jewish- hatred and intimidation on campuses. The malicious BDS campaign uses strong-arm tactics and traffics in discrimination, and does not contribute in any productive way to the promotion of peace talks between Israelis and Palestinians. At heart the BDS movement is promoting a fervently vicious and relentless anti-Israel message, and the actions of the Young Greens will contribute to the singling out and demonization of those who have links with and support the state of Israel. At a time of an alarming rise in anti-Semitism and violence, Australian students organisations should champion the cause of reconciliation and build bridges of communication, not stoke the embers of discord and foment an atmosphere of hostility against the Jewish community. We call on Richard Di Natale to publicly and unequivocally denounce this policy and to act immediately to rectify this unconscionable situation.”
The B’nai B’rith Anti-Defamation Commission, founded in 1979, is Australia’s leading organization fighting racism through educational programs that combat bigotry, prejudice and all forms of hatred.
For further information please contact Dr Dvir Abramovich on 9272 5677.