Standing against antisemitism and intolerance
The Victorian Liberal Nationals have announced a new commitment to combating antisemitism and intolerance across the state.
Dr David Bach, Matthew Guy and David Southwick
Leader Matthew Guy has already pledged that a Liberal Nationals Government will adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism.
He said: “The Victorian Liberal Party will always stand against intolerance and all forms of hate.
This is a vital step to tackle antisemitism in our schools, communities and online so that everyone in our multicultural community can live free of hate.”
The IHRA definition of antisemitism has been recently adopted by the Australian Federal Government and over 40 other nations and hundreds of organisations and community groups.
The IHRA definition: “Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.”
Matthew Guy added: “By adopting a uniform definition of antisemitism, law enforcement, community groups and social media operators are better informed to recognise and take action against instances of antisemitism.
Every Victorian deserves to go about their daily lives free from fear of intolerance, abuse or violence based on who they are.
With instances of antisemitic abuse, violence and property damage increasingly common in our local communities, further action is need to combat the rise of hate and intolerance.
This important commitment complements the Victorian Liberal Nationals’ policy commitment and campaign to ban the Nazi swastika announced in February 2020.”
Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party David Southwick commented: “Tragically, instances of antisemitism continue to rise across our community and no one should tolerate abuse based on who they are.
The best way to stop hate is to educate and the adoption of this definition is an important step to take action against antisemitism.”
Victoria’s Shadow Attorney-General Dr Matt Bach added: “Abuse, violence and threats based on who a person is have no place in Victoria.
This clear and uniform definition of antisemitism will help Victorians better understand, recognise and act against intolerance.”
