The B’nai B’rith Anti-Defamation Commission (ADC), Australia’s leading organisation fighting anti-Semitism and hatred in all its forms, has welcome the declaration by Sydney University Vice Chancellor Dr. Michael Spence that “anti-Semitic behaviour is not acceptable on campus” and that BDS “is not university policy”. Dr Spence also said that he wants to, “empower the great body of students and staff to know how to deal with and fight” anti-Semitism.
Dr Dvir Abramovich, Chairman of the ADC, issued the following statement:
“I welcome and applaud the strong and principled statement by Sydney University Vice Chancellor Dr. Michael Spence condemning anti-Semitism and making it clear that any form of anti-Jewish bigotry has no place on campus. As we have noted previously, university campuses have become extensions of the virulent and irrational Jewish-hatred infecting our community. There are many Jewish students who feel isolated and emotionally depleted to the point that they are afraid to confront these racist groups for fear of violence or abuse, and who feel unable to participate fully in campus life. What has compounded Jewish students’ sense of vulnerability is not just personally experiencing or witnessing anti-Semitism, but the perception that university administrators have not responded swiftly and effectively to this serious problem. Universities need to be at the forefront of the fight against anti-Semitism wherever and whenever it appears. We are grateful to the Vice Chancellor for his commitment to ensuring that all students feel welcome at Sydney University and for making it clear that any racially and religiously motivated incidents are completely incompatible with the spirit of academic learning.”
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
Join the ADC on Facebook
or visit our website at antidef.org.au