Protest the Royal Commission farce to say: Supporting Palestine is not antisemitic

The Albanese governmentʼs Royal Commission on antisemitism and social cohesion is a farce. It has been used to demonise Palestine solidarity while denying Palestinian organisations any right to appear at hearings. It has amplified calls for attacks on civil liberties and democratic freedoms and it has relentlessly platformed supporters of Israel and figures from pro-Israel, Zionist organisations while almost completely excluding anti-Zionist Jews from hearings.

Despite having “social cohesion” in its title, the Royal Commission has platformed vile anti-Palestinian racism and Islamophobia. Palestinian bake sales, the Palestinian flag, Arabic words and the keffiyeh have all been referred to as antisemitic and threatening in hearings. The hearings have also amplified the voices of figures who have openly called for and justified the genocide of Palestinians.

Whilst we recognise antisemitism is a real and present problem, and condemn it in the strongest terms, we reject the Royal Commissionʼs premise of focussing on antisemitism only as opposed to all kinds of racism. Exceptionalising antisemitism and treating it as more important than other forms of racism ignores the increase in discrimination and demonisation of Palestinians, Arabs and Muslims in Australia since 7 October 2023.

By almost completely excluding anti-Zionist Jews from hearings so far, including the Loud Jew Collective as well individuals, the Royal Commission reinforces the idea that support for the genocidal Israeli state is inherent to Jewish identity. This decision only serves to stoke antisemitism.

The Royal Commission is an extension of the shameful attempt by the federal and state governments and pro-Israel activists to exploit the Bondi attack to silence legitimate criticism of Israel.

This June, a UN inquiry detailed Israelʼs systematic murder of children in Gaza and the West Bank, adding to numerous authoritative findings that Israel is committing genocide. The Albanese government refuses to impose comprehensive sanctions and aids Israel with trade, intelligence, fighter jet parts and armoured steel.

Criticism of Israel is not only legitimate but urgently necessary so long as the genocide, occupation and complicity continue.

Join us outside the Royal Commissionʼs hearings to reject its claims that itʼs antisemitic to criticise Israel and to stand up for democratic rights.