The head of an inquiry into antisemitism in Australia has condemned online hatred and bigotry targeting Jewish witnesses who appeared before the commission.
Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion
The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion was established in response to a December attack in which two gunmen, allegedly inspired by the Islamic State group, killed 15 people at a Sydney Hanukkah celebration. Royal commissions represent Australia's highest form of public inquiry.
Commission head Virginia Bell, a former High Court judge, stated on Tuesday that Jewish witnesses who testified about their experiences of antisemitism since public hearings began on May 4 have been subjected to online “harassment and intimidation.”
“We have received reports from a number of witnesses concerning a dramatic increase in online hate messages after they have given evidence,” Bell said.
“Quite what this undiluted level of hatred and bigotry directed towards members of the Jewish community is thought to benefit by those who post these remarks is lost on me,” she added.
Commission's Response to Harassment
The commission is recording the “offensive social media posts,” Bell noted, and in one instance, the harassment has been referred to police. “The commission has, as one of its principal objects, understanding and assessing the lived experience of antisemitism by members of the Jewish community and it is being informed by conduct of this character,” she said.
The first two weeks of hearings have scrutinized the nature and prevalence of antisemitism within Australia's institutions and society at large.
Incident Outside Commission
During the first week of hearings, a 68-year-old man was charged with wearing a shirt emblazoned with a “prohibited Nazi symbol” outside the commission in Sydney, according to a police statement. The design reportedly incorporated a Star of David superimposed over a swastika, accompanied by the slogan: “Antisemitism. Proud to be accused. Speak up!”
The commission released a statement at the time expressing its dismay that an “antisemitic shirt” had been displayed in its vicinity. It assured witnesses that safety protocols were in place around the building. “The royal commission is determined to investigate antisemitism in Australia without fear or intimidation,” the statement affirmed.
