Lori Rubo

I’d like to examine the inconsistencies in global responses to #antisemitism because they have been irking me to my core for weeks now. In recent years, the world has witnessed numerous instances of human rights violations. These events have often sparked outrage and solidarity, leading to powerful social media campaigns and public demonstrations. For example, when Boko Haram kidnapped hundreds of young girls in Nigeria, the world united under the banner of "Bring Back Our Girls." Similarly, when a Muslim woman on a bus in Australia was targeted for her hijab after the Lindt Cafe siege, the #IllRideWithYou campaign emerged as a symbol of solidarity and support against Islamophobia. Other recent enough examples include the #JeSuisCharlie movement, which garnered support for freedom of speech after the 2015 Charlie Hebdo attack in Paris. Similarly, the #MeToo movement created a powerful platform for survivors of sexual harassment and assault, leading to a global reckoning with these issues. The #BlackLivesMatter movement, sparked by instances of police brutality in the US, highlighted systemic racial injustices and resonated across the globe. The #Kony2012 campaign significantly raised awareness about the crimes of Ugandan warlord Joseph Kony. And on and on and on. These movements generally represent the best of human empathy and solidarity in the face of injustice ❤️. They demonstrate how communities across the globe can come together to support victims of oppression and violence 💛. However, it's important to reflect on the consistency of these responses, especially when considering the historical and ongoing challenges faced by the Jewish community - with the recent meteoric rises in antisemitism far surpassing any other form of hate speech/crime. Historically, Jewish people have endured unimaginable horrors, from systematic discrimination and persecution to the unfathomable atrocities of the Holocaust. Yet, despite this history, and in the face of ongoing antisemitic attacks and hate crimes, global reactions often seem muted. This includes our governments and protective services. Where we have seen hashtags and effortlessly mobilising support for other groups, the response to antisemitism often lacks the same vigour and widespread outcry. Why is there no #bringbackkfir? Don’t #jewishlivesmatter? Why did it take nearly 60 days for the UN to acknowledge the sexual violence that was widespread in Hamas’ barbaric attack on Oct 7? #MeTooUnlessUrAJew This disparity raises important questions about the global community's commitment to fighting all forms of hatred and prejudice. Why is there such a difference in response? Is the world less sensitive to the sufferings of the Jews, or are these incidents viewed through a different lens? We should be able to combat all forms of hatred with equal determination. The fight against antisemitism should not be a Jewish problem alone; it’s a humanitarian issue that requires the same level of solidarity and action as any other form of bigotry or violence 😞. There should be no hierarchy of oppression. Every act of hate, every instance of injustice, deserves our attention and action. As we stand in solidarity with various oppressed groups around the world, humanity must ensure that our empathy and support are not selective but extended to all who suffer from discrimination and violence. Antisemitism seems permissible, rationalised, and trendy. And that’s disgusting. #illridethebandwagonwithyou. #auspol – at Melbourne, Victoria