Victorian opposition leader Matthew Guy says a Liberal government would be adopt IHRA definition
Zionism Victoria welcomed the announcement made yesterday by Matthew Guy at its Annual Assembly, that a future Victorian Liberal Government would adopt the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism.
Matthew Guy
Zionism Victoria president Yossi Goldfarb remarked, “The realities of antisemitism are unfortunately everlasting, with no better example than the abhorrent online abuse faced by our communal partners in the lead-up to, and during our Israel Peace Rally in May. As our community works to develop positive and supportive relationships with governments, universities, businesses and more, we’re thankful that this support has been reflected in today’s announcement by Mr Guy.”
In Mr Guy’s address to Zionism Victoria’s 83rd Annual Assembly, he noted, “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 working definition acts as a tool with which to help define what antisemitism actually is to people inside and outside our community. Institutionally, defining antisemitism can help in identifying, targeting and stamping out discrimination in business, academia, and society as a whole.
Mr Goldfarb also took the opportunity to thank the Victorian Government and Opposition for their commitment to ban the use of the swastika and combat racism in the state, stating: “People in Victoria can be reassured that their right to identify with our Jewish and Zionist community is pro-actively supported by both major parties in Victoria. It is perhaps unlike anywhere else in the world. However, the work must continue, and we call on the Victorian Government to match this important commitment and announce its adoption of the IHRA Working Definition of antisemitism.”
Zionist Federation of Australia President Jeremy Leibler welcomed Mr Guy’s announcement. “Mr Guy’s commitment to adopting the working definition, coming so soon after the Australian adoption, sends a powerful message to all Victorians. Racism has no place in this state, or in this country.”
Mr Leibler continued, “Just as the Australian adoption of the IHRA definition was achieved with bipartisan consensus, I hope that a Victorian adoption will be, too. The Andrews Government is committed to fighting racism in all its forms, so I call on Mr Andrews to consider also adopting the IHRA definition. The working definition is truly becoming the global standard, as more and more national and state governments, as well as institutions and businesses, are adopting it.”
