Letters: Anti-Semitism on university campuses demands response
Federal Member for Fisher Andrew Wallace, left, has visited the sites of the massacre of Israelis.
I am deeply concerned about the rise of anti-Semitism on our university campuses and within our communities. This global pandemic of hate is spreading like wildfire, fuelled by misinformation and extremist ideologies.
It is distressing to witness the proliferation of anti-Semitic incidents, from online forums to physical protests on university campuses. Jewish students and staff are facing discrimination and abuse, with some being forcibly barred from attending classes due to safety concerns.
Recent events at universities across Australia, including the University of Sydney, the University of Melbourne, Curtin University, the University of Queensland (UQ), and the Australian
National University (ANU), have highlighted the urgent need for action.
At UQ, for example, the display of the flag of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, a recognised terrorist group, alongside the Aboriginal and Palestinian flags is deeply troubling. Similarly, student leaders at ANU have called for unconditional support for Hamas, a terrorist organisation responsible for heinous sexual, political, and gender-based violence.
The complicity of some university staff members and the silence of political leaders only serve to exacerbate the problem. It is imperative that those in positions of power take a stand against anti-Semitism and unequivocally condemn all forms of hate speech and violence.
Furthermore, it is essential that universities enforce strict disciplinary measures against students and staff who engage in anti-Semitic behaviour. There must be zero tolerance for discrimination and bigotry on our campuses.
Law enforcement agencies also have a crucial role to play in ensuring the safety and security of Jewish Australians. They must actively investigate and prosecute hate crimes, sending a clear message that anti-Semitism will not be tolerated in our society.
I urge our political leaders, university administrators, and law enforcement authorities to take decisive action against anti-Semitism. Silence is not an option. We must stand in solidarity with the Jewish community and work together to combat this scourge of hatred.
– Andrew Wallace MP, Federal Member for Fisher
Support for Bonza ‘Legends’
As a Sunshine Coast resident I have really appreciated the excellent product and service that Bonza developed from our local airport, and flew with them at least 10 times. The direct connections to the north and to other regional places down south and west were brilliant. Their staff were always friendly and down to earth (in the air!).
I’ve noticed a fundraiser has been set up by the Flight Attendants’ Association of Australia (FAAA) to give extra support for Bonza cabin crew, as they await their entitlements. I’d love more people to be aware of the opportunity to support these hardworking staff who made Bonza so great.
Longer term – I’m really hoping, too, that someone or group is found who can take over the aircraft leases and get them flying again. It was so much work building up to what they have now, and would be a shame to see it finish.
Visit the GoFundMe at gofund.me/fc66b211
– Ben Beaden, Palmwoods