In the wake of the Hamas attack on Israel, the Australian National University (ANU) has become a microcosm of the escalating tensions and rising antisemitism in the country. The story of Liat, a Jewish-Australian woman, is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by Jewish students and staff on campus. Her experience highlights the insidious nature of antisemitism, which often manifests in subtle, yet deeply offensive, ways. While the Palestinian flag is not inherently antisemitic, its saturation in certain contexts can create an environment conducive to hate speech and violence. The key slogans, such as 'intifada revolution' and 'from the river to the sea Palestine will be free', have been described by members of the Jewish community as calls for violence, and their use on campus has caused immense distress to Jewish students like Liat. The ANU's response to these incidents has been criticized as 'lacklustre', with a verbal warning being the only action taken against the students who performed Nazi salutes. This lack of decisive action has contributed to a culture of impunity, where antisemitic behavior goes unchallenged and unpunished. The story of Liat and ACJ, a former UNSW staff member, is a powerful reminder of the psychological and emotional toll that antisemitism can take on individuals. The constant need to hide one's Jewish identity, the fear of physical harm, and the strain on personal relationships are all aspects of the lived experience of antisemitism. It is crucial that universities take a zero-tolerance approach to antisemitism and implement robust policies to protect Jewish students and staff. The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion has an important role to play in addressing these issues and fostering a more inclusive and tolerant society. In my opinion, the commission should recommend that universities adopt comprehensive antisemitism policies, provide training for staff and students, and establish support networks for Jewish students and staff. Only through a concerted effort can we hope to create a society where antisemitism is no longer tolerated, and where Jewish individuals can live and study without fear or discrimination.
