The head of a royal commission investigating antisemitism in Australia has condemned online harassment and bigotry directed at Jewish witnesses who testified before the inquiry. Former High Court judge Virginia Bell, who leads the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion, said witnesses reported a dramatic increase in hate messages after giving evidence since public hearings began on May 4.
“We have received reports from a number of witnesses concerning a dramatic increase in online hate messages after they have given evidence,” Bell said. “Quite what this undiluted level of hatred and bigotry directed towards members of the Jewish community is thought to benefit by those who post these remarks is lost on me.”
The commission was established after two gunmen allegedly inspired by the Islamic State group killed 15 people at a Sydney Hanukkah celebration in December. Royal commissions are Australia's highest form of public inquiry. Bell said the commission is recording the offensive social media posts, and in one case the harassment has been referred to police.
“The commission has, as one of its principal objects, understanding and assessing the lived experience of antisemitism by members of the Jewish community and it is being informed by conduct of this character,” she said. The first two weeks of hearings examined the nature and prevalence of antisemitism in Australia’s institutions and society.
During the first week of hearings, a 68-year-old man was charged with wearing a shirt emblazoned with a “prohibited Nazi symbol” outside the commission in Sydney. The design appeared to incorporate a Star of David superimposed over a swastika with the slogan: “Antisemitism. Proud to be accused. Speak up!” The commission said it was “appalled” and assured witnesses that safety protocols were in place.
