May 4, 2015
The B’nai B’rith Anti-Defamation Commission has expressed concern about reports that some University of Sydney staff has supported inviting speakers to campus to express their anti-Semitism. According to reports, when asked if an IS supporter should be allowed to “express their anti-Semitism” and deliver a lecture about why the west is wrong and they are right, lecturer Yarran Hominh wrote: “I would say yes, we should ‘allow’ them to express their anti-Semitism — within bounds, of course.”
ADC Chairman, Dr Dvir Abramovich, issued the following statement:
“This is not about free speech. Sydney University is not required to give a platform to any individual or group who wants to vilify, defame and demonise the Jewish people. I am appalled that anyone would argue that Sydney university should help an IS supporter spew his incitement and bigotry, and spread his venom against Israel and Jews. The poisonous language of hate, aimed at maligning a particular group or minority, has no place in our community, and universities should not provide a stage for the purveyors of dangerous intolerance. Many Jewish students have reported feeling harassed, intimidated and unsafe on campus, and there is serious concern that events that promote anti-Jewish rhetoric or openly support terrorism against Israel might lead to violence. All institutions have a responsibility to vigorously speak out, clearly and unequivocally, against naked anti-Semitism and extremism, not encourage it.”
The Anti-Defamation Commission, founded in 1979, is Australia’s leading organization fighting anti-Semitism through educational programs that combat bigotry, prejudice and all forms of hatred.
For further information please contact Dr Dvir Abramovich on (03) 9272 5677
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