The ADC has hailed the historic motion condemning anti-Semitism that was passed unanimously by the Port Phillip Council last week. The resolution, drafted by Dvir Abramovich, followed the Dick Gross incident. Dvir Abramovich was the only speaker to address the council before the vote, urging them to back it. It is the first time in the country’s history that a local council has endorsed such a motion.
Dr Dvir Abramovich, Chairman of the ADC, issued the following statement:
“We applaud the Port Phillip Councillors for rising to the occasion of this moment and for forcefully condemning the scourge of anti-Semitism through this historic motion. This action sends the unmistakable message that there is no excuse for excusing intolerance and that what happened in their chambers is not who they are Last month, in the heart of local government, our community witnessed ugly, jarring, in- your-face anti-Jewish bigotry that jolted all of us and which tested our enduring values of inclusivity and respect. Its impact reverberated far past the individual affected and pained many others. I am heartened that the Port Philip Councillors looked deeply within themselves, locked arms, and said in one, strong voice, that religious vilification must never find a home in our country and labelled it for what it is—un-Australian and always unacceptable.”
THE MOTION
Unequivocally and publicly condemns all forms of anti-Semitism which include, but are not limited to:
- Using falsehoods, stereotypes and allegations such as a Jewish conspiracy to dominate and control the media, economy and government, or that Jewish citizens are more loyal to Israel than to their own nation.
- Employing blood libels, images and symbols associated with age-old anti-Semitism that have provided justification for harm to Jews for thousands of years.
- Calling for the destruction of the Jewish people
- Denying Israel’s right to exist
Acknowledges that elected leaders in Australia need to be vigilant in speaking out against racism, including any anti-Semitic sentiments or actions
Refer the topic of anti-Semitism to the next City of Port Phillip Multi-faith Network to consider appropriate actions that can be achieved within existing Council resources.
For further information please contact Dr Dvir Abramovich on 9272 5677.