April 4, 2016
The B’nai B’rith Anti-Defamation Commission (ADC) has decried another act of anti-Semitic vandalism, in which a fence in Balaclava was painted with a Swastika. The offensive graffiti was discovered by a Jewish resident who lives in the apartment block.
Dr Dvir Abramovich, Chairman of the ADC, issued the following statement:
“I am alarmed by the growing level of malicious anti-Semitic vandalism which constitutes a matter of great concern. It fits a pattern of increased bias-motivated crimes targeting the Jewish community. Such cowardly attacks, using the infamous symbol of hatred, are repugnant and are a gross violation of our values. There is no doubt that the spike in these threatening incidents, which traumatise the victims and create a climate of fear, serves as a sad reminder that anti-Semitism and racism are on the rise, and that the need for educational programs that challenge this destructive hatred, such as the ADC’s Click Against Hate, are vitally important. The message that must be conveyed by leaders across the political and religious spectrum is that this type of intimidating bigotry, as well as any other bigotry directed against any person because of their faith, ethnicity, gender or sexual orientation, will not be tolerated. We must all say enough, and do all we can to combat racism and promote inclusiveness. Anyone who has information about the perpetrators of this odious act is encouraged to contact Victoria police, and it is our hope that once those responsible are arrested, they are prosecuted to the full extent of the law”
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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