Victorian AUJS goes to Parliament
The Australasian Union of Jewish Students (AUJS) invited a variety of Victorian parliamentarians at a half- day conference at state Parliament House last week.
Antony Kennett, David Southwick, Yossi Reicher, Mark Lazarovits
AUJS sent 26 Jewish students to Spring Street to engage with leading members of the Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council. “The conference was designed to enable students to network and engage with the leading parliamentarians and Jewish community leaders in Victoria, said Yossi Reicher, Victorian President of AUJS.
A highlight of the day’s proceedings was an address by the Premier, The Hon Ted Baillieu MLA, who reflected on the history of Melbourne and the Victorian Parliament. The Premier emphasised the deep relationship between Victoria and the State of Israel on economic and cultural levels.
Participants were also treated to a panel featuring Mr James Merlino MLA, Deputy Leader of the Opposition; Ms Marsha Thomson MLA, Labor Member for Footscray; David Southwick MLA, Liberal Member for Caulfield MLA; and The Hon Robert Clark, Attorney-General. The panel discussed the importance of involving young people in state politics as they had experienced in their capacities as student leaders at university.
Madeleine Buchner, Bradley White, James Merlino (Deputy Leader of the Opposition), Antony Kennett
At the conclusion of the day, a special cocktail function which was jointly sponsored by the JCCV and ZCV was held. Nina Bassat AM, President of JCCV and Sam Tatarka, President of ZCV addressed members at this function. Parliamentarians from both sides of politics attended.
AUJS is grateful for the support of Mr David Southwick MP and his office in co-ordinating AUJS’ time at Parliament. Mr Southwick also led students on a personal tour of the building. “AUJS would like to sincerely thank David Southwick for all of his support and assistance in making Spring Street Conference possible,” said Reicher.
“AUJS provided the opportunity to enforce, question or develop students’ political views, whether new to politics, undecided or strong affiliates of a party, in a live and engaging forum,” said Ricky Lebenholc, AUJS Victoria Political Officer.
“Spring Street Conference provided a fascinating insight into the workings and importance of Victorian political life”, said participant Mark Lazarovits.
“I hope that the conference participants are inspired and motivated to become more involved in politics and in the Jewish community,” Reicher said.
AUJS should start a Israel activist or advocacy group like Students for Palestine who are pro- active and have events on a ongoing regular basis. Israel has no support at University or street level .
AUJS should also try to form an alliance with some other groups similar to Palestinian’s alliance with Trade Unions, Socialist , Human rights groups, Etc.