On Sunday, Bondi Beach witnessed a profound outpouring of grief, support, and a determined resolution to combat hate with love. In a remarkable display of unity, the Jewish community, still grappling with feelings of neglect, expressed their unwavering love for Australia. The evening’s emotional crescendo was a heartfelt rendition of I Still Call Australia Home, a tribute that seemed to summon the spirit of Peter Allen himself.
This powerful moment resonates deeply with the lessons learned by many, including those who, like myself, grew up Christian amidst Jewish friends and families in New York. Through classroom discussions, dinner table conversations, and visits to synagogues, I witnessed firsthand the incredible resilience and strength of the Jewish community in the face of repeated persecution.
Breaking the Cycle of Hatred
The pressing question for Australia now is how to break free from a history of hatred and reciprocate the Jewish community’s love for the country. How can we ensure that our support extends beyond the ephemeral gestures of flowers laid in remembrance?
Jewish leaders have been clear in their message: Your silence is deadly. Your inaction to hatred is killing us. While governments and law enforcement agencies have roles to play, the responsibility also falls on faith leaders, educators, community groups, and neighbors. It is a collective effort.
The Escalation of Hate
Premier Chris Minns and Jewish leaders have highlighted how unchecked hatred can escalate from online vitriol and racist chants to physical vandalism and deadly violence. To break this cycle, every act of hatred must be met with an overwhelming, visible show of love and support.
Imagine a scenario where two masked men deface a synagogue with symbols of hate under the cover of night. By daybreak, scores of supporters arrive with cleaning tools, ready to erase the hate. They also hang signs in their homes and businesses declaring, “We love our Jewish neighbors,” “Peace,” and “Shalom.” This is the essence of Australian mateship—rallying together in times of need so that no Jewish hand has to erase words of hate alone.
Launching a Symbol of Unity
In response to recent attacks, a small group arranged for a banner to fly over Bondi with a simple message: “♥️ From AUS for our Jewish community.” The initiative aims to establish “♥️From AUS” as a lasting symbol of support for the Jewish community. AUS stands for Australia and AllofUS, emphasizing the collective effort required.
Local communities can create “♥️From AUS” Facebook and WhatsApp groups to forge connections with the Jewish community. These platforms can serve as support networks in times of need and as avenues for education about Jewish history, culture, and faith. By connecting, listening, and learning from each other, we can build a stronger, safer Australia for all.
Spreading the Message
To counteract hate online, individuals can incorporate “♥️From AUS” into their profile pictures. Joining campaigns like Chanel Contos’ “Fix Our Feeds” can help demand changes to social media algorithms that promote extremism. Hate, whether directed at women, the Jewish community, or any other group, must be addressed.
Businesses with spare billboard space can display “♥️From AUS” messages, and clothing companies can design supportive apparel. Children can use chalk to spread the message on footpaths. Imagine Jewish community members seeing this banner on streets, bus shelters, and over the heads and hearts of those around them, knowing they are safe and supported in Australia.
Actions and Implications
These are just a few ideas for action. The power of a symbol lies in its ability to inspire countless acts of courage and kindness. Through the common “♥️From AUS” banner, these acts can forge something greater than their sum, defining us as a nation of universal mateship, united by values that make Australia a place of safety and belonging for everyone.
For the Jewish community at this time, I offer a Hebrew blessing of peace, wholeness, and healing—shalom aleinu. For those who have lost loved ones, may their memory be a blessing.
Support and Resources
For those affected by the Bondi Beach incident, several helplines are available:
- Bondi Beach Victim Services: 1800 411 822
- Bondi Beach Public Information & Enquiry Centre: 1800 227 228
- NSW Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511 or Lifeline: 13 11 14
- Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 or chat online at kidshelpline.com.au
Mark Connelly is the founder and CEO of Lincoln Park Advisory, a communications and AI strategy consultancy.
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