Controversial Darebin Council Motions Spark Tensions

Darebin Council has been accused of anti-Semitism after councillors voted to boycott companies and suppliers with links to Israel. The boycott is likened to ‘vile anti-Semitism of the past.

In a series of contentious decisions, the Inner-City Darebin Council has voted to boycott companies with Israeli links, aligning itself with the Maribyrnong Merri-Bek and Yarra councils. These motions have stirred heated debates, focusing on Israel’s response to the Hamas terrorist attack on October 7.

The controversial motion passed by Inner-city Darebin Council calls for an investigation into ending contracts with companies and suppliers allegedly supporting the “illegal occupation of Palestine,” particularly those supplying equipment to the Israeli Defense Force.

Zeddy Lawrence, Executive Director of Zionism Victoria, criticised the one-sided nature of the motion, suggesting that a more balanced approach would better address concerns related to anti-Semitism. He pointed out that considering contracts with companies facilitating the construction of Hamas terror tunnels and rockets would provide a more nuanced perspective.

The Jewish Community Council (JCCV) has expressed concern, stating that Jewish residents in these council areas feel anxious, afraid, and angry. Many reportedly do not feel safe attending council meetings or speaking out against the motions.

Philip Zajac, President of JCCV, emphasised the lack of consultation with Jewish residents and employees in these councils. The JCCV has written to involved councillors, stating that these motions damage social cohesion, create unsafe neighbourhoods, and alienate local residents.

Furthermore, the JCCV called upon Victorian Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne to remind councillors of their obligations under the Local Government Act, urging them to focus on building a harmonious society rather than passing divisive motions.

Below are the roles we think a council should be concerned about. A council should not be concerned with conflicts in other countries and enforce their opinions on the rate-payers of that community. If I have ever heard of a case of RACISM, this is it.

Dr. Dvir Abramovich, Chair of the Anti-Defamation Commission, expressed concern that these motions would foster hostility against the Jewish community and anyone supporting Israel. He recounted instances of residents fearing for their safety, with some even avoiding displaying religious symbols in public.

”No wonder that a Jewish resident of Darebin, who was afraid to attend the meeting, told me that her young son warned her not to wear a Star of David around her neck while walking the streets of her neighbourhood in case she was attacked,” he said.

Member of Parliament for Caulfield, David Southwick, criticised the councils for passing what he termed “one-sided and divisive” motions. Southwick highlighted the negative consequences, including the fear of Jewish businesses being targeted, reminiscent of historical events such as the Judenboykott in 1930s Germany.

In a positive development, the Monash Council debated a motion on Gaza, where a more empathetic approach prevailed, and the motion failed with a 2 to 7 vote. Southwick commended this outcome, emphasising the importance of sense and empathy in local governance.

As tensions escalate and concerns mount, the debate surrounding these motions continues to reverberate in Melbourne, raising questions about the impact of such decisions on community harmony and social cohesion.

Editor