The Australian Jewish Association (AJA) expresses strong support for a Motion introduced to the South Australian Legislative Council to be heard on 15 June 2022, which “endorses and adopts the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism.”
The Australian Jewish Association (AJA) is a national, membership-based organisation for the Jewish Community, with members in South Australia. AJA is the largest Jewish organisation in Australia, as measured by social media and community engagement. AJA was consulted and assisted with the drafting of the Motion.
AJA President Dr David Adler said, “The IHRA definition of antisemitism is the most authoritative international definition of antisemitism. The definition is not legally binding but is a useful tool for government, education and law-enforcement in fighting racial hatred. The definition provides several examples of contemporary antisemitism. Importantly, the definition states that, “Criticism of Israel similar to that levelled against any other country cannot be regarded as antisemitic.” The IHRA definition has been adopted by many nations, the majority of US States, as well as organisations like the European Union, English Premier League and the British Labour Party.”
Dr Adler said, “In Australia, in late 2021 the then Federal government adopted the IHRA definition. Former Prime Minister Scott Morrison made the announcement and the current Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, then Opposition Leader, also stated his support. Since the Federal announcement, both the NSW and Victorian State governments have also adopted the IHRA definition of antisemitism and in both cases, this was bipartisan. Some Local Councils in both Victoria and New South Wales have also recently adopted the definition.
Unfortunately, there has been a rise in dangerous antisemitism and intolerance, internationally and across Australia, including in South Australia. Recent vandalism by Neo-Nazi groups has caused concern in the Jewish Community. This Motion is critical to the Jewish Community and sends a powerful message of solidarity, by making it clear that antisemitism will not be tolerated in South Australia. We hope the motion is not used for cheap political games and that it receives bipartisan support as it has nationally.”
