Politicians and councillors learn about the community
State MPs Hong Lim, Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs, David Southwick Shadow Minister for Innovation, and the mayors of Bayside and Stonnington Councils, Cr Jamie Hyams from the City of Glen Eira, policy advisers and policymakers have participated in the Jewish Community Council of Victoria’s (JCCV’s) 2016 Politicians’ and Councillors Jewish Immersion Day.
MPs, Councillors, advisors and community leaders at Jewish Care
The eleven-strong group visited Jewish Care Victoria, the Jewish Museum of Australia, Temple Beth Israel, the Jewish Holocaust Centre, the Lamm Jewish Library and the Beth Weizmann Community Centre.
JCCV President Jennifer Huppert provided the group an outline of the role of the JCCV and the diversity across the Jewish community. Ms Huppert said, “This is an important event, giving politicians the opportunity to experience first hand some of the diverse elements of the Melbourne Jewish community, including a brief introduction to Judaism and the many different ways it is expressed, and an explanation of some of the major issues and concerns of the Jewish community.”
“The JCCV would like to thank the leaders and advisers from both sides of politics who participated, the affiliates who hosted visits, and the community leaders who participated in the luncheon discussion (on issues including community security, multicultural and interfaith relations, racism and antisemitism) and the model Shabbat led by Rabbi Ralph Genende.”
At Temple Beth Israel
Bill Appleby provided an overview of Jewish Care’s planned major projects, Rebecca Forgasz presented a concise history of the Victorian Jewish community, Rabbi Gersh Lazarow provided an introduction to the Synagogue and the diversity of the Jewish community, Warren Fineberg hosted a moving tour of the Jewish Holocaust Centre while community leaders including Jennifer Huppert, Sharene Hambur and David Marlow led discussions on community issues and initiatives.
Ms Huppert said, “this annual event demonstrates a serious commitment from the members of parliament and councillors, and their advisers to understanding and working with our community.”
