What can people do to combat antisemitism?
REACTIVE
Individuals can encounter expressions of antisemitism in the media (including social media), workplace, clubs, associations, schools, tertiary institutions and in social settings.
A key tool for combating antisemitism is familiarising yourself with the globally-recognised definition of antisemitism adopted in 2016 by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA), of which Australia is a member.
In the first instance, if individuals feel safe to do so, be willing to call out antisemitism when you encounter it. Consult the IHRA definition and advise the perpetrator that what they are doing or saying is harmful and/or hateful to Jews. If it is not possible to confront the perpetrator directly, where relevant advise someone in a position of authority at the place where the antisemitic incident is taking place. This might include a school principal, workplace Human Resources Department, university department head, club or society manager.
If the issue remains unresolved, you should report it to the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies HERE.
Mainstream media outlets and social media platforms vary in the ways the public can report racist/dangerous/offensive content. Please refer to the ‘community guidelines’ and reporting protocols for individual outlets which you believe have included antisemitic content. If you require assistance or advice, contact the Board of Deputies at [email protected] with details of your complaint.
PROACTIVE
Empathy comes from education and understanding, and so we invest resources in social harmony, cultural outreach and anti-racism programs as we believe this is the best way to achieve a harmonious society.
There are a number of ways that individuals can combat antisemitism, and racism more generally.
Invite friends/colleagues from the broader community to your family Shabbat dinner or to come with you to synagogue.
Offer your workplace or club to have a Board of Deputies staff member speak on ‘Judaism’, ‘The Jewish Experience in Australia’, ‘Lessons of the Holocaust’ or ‘Israel & the Middle East’.
Encourage friends and colleagues to visit the Sydney Jewish Museum.
Follow the Board of Deputies on social media to keep up-to-date with intercultural events in which you can participate to build bridges between communities.
