Online Harassment Targets Jewish Witnesses in Australian Antisemitism Inquiry
Jewish witnesses participating in an inquiry into antisemitism in Australia have reportedly been subjected to online harassment and prejudice. The inquiry, known as the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion, commenced in response to a tragic incident in Sydney where 15 individuals were killed by gunmen allegedly inspired by the Islamic State during a Hanukkah celebration.
Virginia Bell, a former High Court judge and head of the commission, highlighted the online “harassment and intimidation” faced by witnesses since the public hearings began on May 4. “We have received reports from a number of witnesses concerning a dramatic increase in online hate messages after they have given evidence,” Bell stated. She expressed confusion over the purpose of such “undiluted level of hatred and bigotry” targeting the Jewish community.
The commission is actively documenting these “offensive social media posts,” and one case has been referred to the police for further investigation. Bell emphasized that understanding and assessing the lived experiences of antisemitism within the Jewish community is a primary objective of the commission.
Throughout the first two weeks of hearings, the focus has been on examining the nature and extent of antisemitism within Australian institutions and society. Notably, during the initial week, a 68-year-old man was charged by police for wearing a shirt outside the commission in Sydney that featured a “prohibited Nazi symbol,” incorporating a Star of David over a swastika, accompanied by the slogan: “Antisemitism. Proud to be accused. Speak up!”
The commission expressed its dismay at the presence of an “antisemitic shirt” near its proceedings and assured witnesses that safety measures were in place around the venue. “The royal commission is determined to investigate antisemitism in Australia without fear or intimidation,” the commission affirmed in a statement.
