At Shtiebel last night, I spoke about the importance of facing complexity—particularly in times of conflict and division. I reflected on the need to hold two conflicting emotions or opinions at the same time, to embrace the nuance that so often defines our experience. I drew upon Viktor Frankl’s wisdom, which reminds us that as human beings, we are capable of holding two opposing truths simultaneously—carrying hope in one pocket and despair in the other, joy in one hand and sorrow in the other. For example, I shared my joy at the release of hostages, while also grappling with the deep fears for those who remain captive. I celebrated the ceasefire in Gaza, yet remained deeply concerned about the cost at which it came and the battles that still lie ahead.

As I wake this morning, I continue to struggle with this duality—particularly as a Jewish Australian. I am proud of this country and its values, of our commitment to fairness, diversity, and inclusion. Yet, I find myself increasingly disheartened by the rising tide of Jew-hatred that is being seen and felt through words and actions in an unsettling and undeniable reality. Attacks on people, synagogues, and homes have created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty, leaving many in the Jewish community feeling isolated and vulnerable.

What makes this situation even more distressing is that these acts of hate are often disguised under the guise of care and concern for the Palestinian people. Instead of advocating for peace and coexistence, some have seized this moment as an opportunity to vilify and target Jews here in Australia, blurring the line between legitimate political discourse and outright antisemitism.

I am particularly disheartened by the decision to have Foreign Minister Penny Wong represent Australia at the 80th anniversary commemoration of the liberation of Auschwitz. While the occasion demands national recognition, Minister Wong is simply the wrong person to represent us. Her words and actions in recent months have only deepened the Jewish community’s sense of alienation and frustration, failing to provide the leadership and reassurance that this moment requires. Auschwitz stands as a stark reminder of where unchecked hate can lead, and it deserves a representative who fully grasps the weight of this history and its contemporary relevance.

True leadership requires more than symbolic gestures; it demands an unwavering commitment to ensuring that history does not repeat itself and that Jewish Australians feel valued and protected. Instead, the government’s response has been marked by silence and inaction, allowing Jew-hatred to fester under the pretense of social justice.

Despite my disappointment, I remain hopeful in the resilience of our community and the allies who stand with us. But hope alone is not enough. We must continue to demand better from our leaders—representation that reflects our concerns, leadership that stands against antisemitism in all its forms, and action that ensures our safety and inclusion.

Holding complexity, as Frankl reminds us, is part of what makes us human. We can feel immense pride in our country while simultaneously feeling profound disappointment in its leadership. We can carry gratitude for our freedoms while demanding more from those who govern us. As we reflect on the lessons of the past, we must also take responsibility for shaping a future where all Australians, including Jews, can feel secure and respected in their own country.

Happy Australia Day!

Image generated by AI using ChatGPT

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